New and Improved

Beginning in 2011, the submersible Alvin underwent an extensive upgrade to incorporate new technology and features. Today, it includes a larger personnel sphere to improve comfort and usability for pilots and observers and additional viewports to increase visibility. The new Alvin also has new or rebuilt components that greatly enhance systems for power, maneuvering, electronics, navigation, sample and data collection, and imaging. After safety test dives in November 2013, the Navy recertified the sub to resume scientific missions. From March 13 to 26, scientists from several research institutions will test the new Alvin’s capabilities for the first time on a Science Verification Cruise in the Gulf of Mexico. (Photo by Lisa Smith, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)