With most of its length underwater, it provides an extremely stable platform, even in rough seas. Rover Scripps researchers have developed a new deep-sea research vehicle called Rover to investigate the ecology of marine life and organic chemical cycling in the deep ocean. Relying on a rugged tractor chassis that carries it across the ocean floor, Rover can operate at depths to 6,000 meters for periods of up to six months. Rover's computer processes signals from onboard sensors and alters the vehicle's course when it encounters obstacles or when seafloor currents change speed or direction. The institution's oceanographic research vessels comprise the largest academic fleet in the United States.
Cruises vary from local trips to expeditions as long as two and one-half years.
Scripps research ships have steamed more than five million nautical miles in support of science and the academic community.