A critical capability in oceanographic investigations is the ability to directly view biologic and geologic processes occurring on the sea floor.
Replaceable components minimize downtime and reduce maintenance requirements.
It incorporates four lights for the video cameras, a strobe for the still camera, a pressure depth sensor, and three lasers for positioning and scale measurement. The device is lowered to the ocean floor via a winch and electromechanical cable and acquires data as the ship slowly moves across the study area. Because it is not towed behind the ship on a long streamed cable, the operators can view realtime, accurately positioned forward and downlooking video images to maintain the vehicle at the proper altitude for still photography and for obstacle avoidance. These data are essential to the study of active sedimentary environments and biological habitats.