What is the OceanXplorer vessel and where is it exploring?

The OceanXplorer is a high-tech marine research vessel owned by the non-profit OceanX, which is studying seamounts off Indonesia.

What kind of equipment does the OceanXplorer have for research?

The OceanXplorer is equipped with submersibles, a science vessel for sample collection, a remotely-operated vehicle for deep dives, mapping radar, plankton nets, and CTD instruments.

How does OceanX make marine science accessible to the public?

OceanX uses advanced scientific research combined with high-end media content, featuring Hollywood-designed interiors and customizable lighting, to make marine biology and conservation compelling for a mass audience.

Home / Science / Billionaire's Ship Unlocks Deep Sea Mysteries Off Indonesia

Billionaire's Ship Unlocks Deep Sea Mysteries Off Indonesia

26 Jan

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Summary

A high-tech research vessel studies seamounts off Indonesia.
The ship combines advanced science with media for public outreach.
It features submersibles, labs, and aerial survey capabilities.

Billionaire's Ship Unlocks Deep Sea Mysteries Off Indonesia

The OceanXplorer, a cutting-edge marine research vessel funded by billionaire Ray Dalio's non-profit OceanX, has been studying seamounts off Indonesia. This former oil exploration ship is now a sophisticated platform for ocean science, combining advanced research capabilities with high-end media production to engage the public.

Equipped with two submersibles, one featuring 8K cameras, and a science vessel capable of collecting samples from 1,000 meters deep, the OceanXplorer is a researcher's dream. It also boasts a remotely-operated vehicle for depths up to 6,000 meters, along with radar, nets for plankton, and CTD instruments.

Rotating science teams, including local Indonesian researchers, join missions to study biodiversity. This collaborative approach facilitates research in areas like cetacean biology, bioprospecting for new medicines, and analyzing plastic waste for helpful microbes using environmental DNA (eDNA).