Published in the Marine Technology Society Journal, Winter 2000/2001: Volume 34(4): 69-74
Dr. Steven L. Miller and Craig Cooper
UNCW Center for Marine Science
National Undersea Research Center
515 Caribbean Drive
Key Largo, Florida 33037
The evolution of Hydrolab and Aquarius from substantial shore support provided in St. Croix, to offshore operations in Florida, first using a mobile support barge and then the LSB, points toward even more autonomous operations in the future. For example, air storage banks located on the bottom, sufficient to support an entire mission, would eliminate the need for compressors now located in the LSB. Innovations in carbon dioxide scrubbing systems have already been tested in Aquarius. Modular construction of new habitat systems would allow for easier deployments and custom configurations based on individual site–based needs. And power systems located underwater, rather than from surface–based generators like the LSB, may soon be possible. Ultimately, only a communications buoy on the surface might give any hint of human habitation below. All of this points to increased system mobility, greater depth capability, and less surface support during missions, without sacrificing aquanaut safety.
The next generation of underwater laboratories will build on the successes of Aquarius, but challenges exist to provide even more cost–effective and flexible operations. A national debate is also underway regarding the use of remotely operated vehicles to replace human exploration and presence underwater. Arguments for machines to replace humans are based on considerations of cost and safety. However, programs like Aquarius and manned submersibles satisfy an essential element of the human spirit that cannot be met by robots. Further, human eyes still exceed the capabilities of cameras, and the creative potential of our brains to observe, explore, understand, and solve problems cannot be matched by computers. Human exploration in the extreme environments of the sea and outer space has captured the attention and imagination of our nation for almost half a century. As the International Space Station comes on line in outer space, it is time to refocus attention on our ocean planet and its “inner space station”, Aquarius. The immediate future for Aquarius includes a full mission year planned for 2001, and refurbishment for 2002 and beyond is attracting national attention and support. Aquarius may be the only underwater laboratory operating in our oceans today, but based on its record of productivity and accomplishment, and the human spirit of exploration, it won’t be the last.
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