Overhaul of Human Occupied Vehicle Alvin for Deep-Sea Exploration - Press Briefing

Explore the groundbreaking upgrades to the Alvin submersible in this 43-minute press briefing from AGU's Fall Meeting 2020. Learn about the final phase of an overhaul that will extend Alvin's diving capabilities from 4,500 meters to an impressive 6,500 meters, allowing scientists to investigate 98 percent of the ocean floor. Discover how this enhanced depth range will enable researchers to study the mysterious abyssal region, home to high-temperature hydrothermal vents, submarine volcanoes, subduction trenches, and mineral resources. Join Alvin scientists as they discuss the technical improvements and the new scientific questions they hope to address with the submersible's expanded capabilities. Gain insights into the future of deep-sea exploration and the potential for groundbreaking discoveries in one of Earth's least-understood environments.