New Robotic Vessel Extends Deep-Ocean Exploration

摘要

CHINABEIJING-- China has deployed a new and untethered robotic submarine that extends the reach of researchers and others interested in learning more about the deep ocean. In a series of dives earlier this year in the central Pacific, the autonomous underwater vehicle CR-01 went down 6000 meters, matching the deepest levels reached by other submersibles. It can remain underwater for an extended period of time, maneuver to avoid obstacles, and take both still and video pictures. The achievement puts China in the front ranks of countries with such a capability, and it may provide a boost for the entire field, which in the post-Cold War era has had to scramble for funding.