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The University of Southampton
Ocean and Earth Science, National Oceanography Centre Southampton

Mini remotely operated underwater vehicle launched by Ocean & Earth Science and the Natural History Museum

Published: 14 September 2011
The mini-ROV

On 14 September Ocean & Earth Science celebrated the launch of its new miniature remotely-operated underwater vehicle (mini-ROV) facility at a reception on the National Oceanography Centre Southampton quayside.

The mini-ROV, which is a joint venture between the University and the Natural History Museum, is a state-of-the-art tool in marine research and environmental consultancy, and the first of its kind in the UK to be equipped with a high definition video system for seafloor observation. It can dive to a depth of 300 metres and carry experiments to and from the seabed.

Marine research and environmental consultancy are the main employment destinations of marine science graduates from the University of Southampton. Dr Jon Copley, Lecturer in Marine Ecology, says: “We are very excited to have this new facility for teaching, which enhances the University's position at the forefront of marine science education, and continues the tradition of providing students with cutting-edge practical experience sought by employers.”

The new vehicle will also help Ocean & Earth Science to share their work with the public, through events where video is streamed from the seafloor to audiences ashore. The first of these events will take place on September 23 with a live link from Southampton Water to the David Attenborough Studio at the NHM in London.

Jon Copley and the new mini-ROV

We are excited to have this new facility for teaching, which enhances the University's position at the forefront of marine science education.

Dr Jon Copley - Lecturer in Marine Ecology
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