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Dive Prep

July 7, 2013

On June 22, 2012, the new personnel sphere of the research submarine Alvin underwent testing to certify that it will be safe for human occupation to depths up to 6,500 meters. The sphere was evaluated at the Northrop Grumman hydrostatic test chamber in Annapolis, Md. It was tested to 8,000 meters—nearly 12,000 pounds per square inch—to meet a Navy requirement that the vehicle should be safe to a depth 24 percent deeper than its maximum operating depth. The sphere, seen here from inside the test chamber, passed with flying colors. (Photo by Tom Kleindinst, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)