The research vessel Anna Weber-van Bosse has been officially launched in Vigo, Spain, marking a major step forward for the Royal Netherlands Institute for Marine Research (NIOZ) oceanographic fleet. At 79 metres long, the modern vessel promises to expand scientific capabilities in unexplored areas, thanks to cutting-edge technology and environmentally friendly propulsion.
Gert-Jan Reichart, head of the ocean systems department at NIOZ, expressed his enthusiasm for the progress of the project.
Construction is now halfway complete and the next step will be to equip the ship with laboratories and advanced technical devices.
he stated.
Among the highlighted innovations, the Anna Weber features an anti-wave stabilization system , a folding keel to improve observations and an underwater robot capable of operating in the most challenging depths.
Capabilities never before seen on a research vessel
This vessel is a far superior vessel to its predecessor, the Pelagia, which has served Dutch research for three decades. New technologies will enable expeditions to polar regions and deep oceans without geographical restrictions. In addition, its light ice class design facilitates operations close to the edges of sea ice, something that was not possible before.
Scientists will also be able to take advantage of the “classroom at sea,” an Internet-connected space for teaching and sharing data in real time. This innovation, in addition to facilitating teaching, will allow students and journalists to experience research firsthand.
International interest for future research
Reichart has urged the scientific community to submit research proposals, noting that there is international interest, including from Indonesia, to collaborate on future studies. Places for scientists have doubled compared to the Pelagia, allowing multiple projects to be carried out simultaneously.
With the launch of Anna Weber-van Bosse, NIOZ is moving towards an era of more accessible and sustainable global scientific exploration. The ship is expected to mark the beginning of exciting new research at the intersection of the Pacific and Indian Oceans , a key region for global oceanography. Watch the video below to see the ship’s launching ceremony.
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Source and photos: NIOZ
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