A UK team has unveiled plans for an ambitious project called Sentinel, an underwater habitat that could revolutionize deep sea research by allowing scientists to live underwater for extended periods of time. Similar to the International Space Station, Sentinel would be located underwater instead of in orbit and would provide scientists with relative comfort during their stay.
The project is led by Deep, an ocean technology and exploration company with the goal of “Making Humans Aquatic.” The habitat is planned to be installed off the Southwest coast of the UK, potentially in Wales, at a depth of approximately 200 m (656 ft) in the Epipelagic Zone. Access to the habitat would be through submersibles, and its modular and movable design would allow for deployment in other locations as needed.
“The Epipelagic Zone is the deepest point in the ocean where sunlight can penetrate, and it is estimated that 90% of marine life is found in this zone,” said Deep in their press release. “Exploring this part of the ocean comprehensively, rather than just conducting surface incursions, will bring a significant change in how scientists observe, monitor, and understand the oceans.”
After two years of intensive research in manufacturing processes and materials science, Deep is now in the advanced stages of technical design and production. The Deep system presents a more effective way for humans to live and operate underwater compared to previous temporary and fixed-location facilities. The habitat is modular, scalable, autonomous, recoverable, re-configurable, and re-deployable.
Deep
Despite the challenging conditions underwater, the renders of the habitat suggest that scientists would have a surprisingly comfortable living space. The habitat would include research laboratories, communal areas, and well-equipped bedrooms with single beds, storage space, and even a TV for entertainment. The bathrooms would be equipped with a shower, toilet, and sink. While it may not be luxurious, it is far from the cramped conditions associated with submersibles.
Deep aims to establish a permanent human presence underwater by 2027. However, there are significant obstacles to overcome, including ensuring structural stability under immense pressure at such depths, as well as providing sufficient oxygen and power for the occupants. According to Designboom, Deep is working on a renewable power source and a large-scale bio-reactor to handle waste. The company is currently in discussions with potential investors and partners to bring the project to fruition.
Source: Deep
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