Construction has commenced on a state-of-the-art marine research and education support vessel at Changzhou Island in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, aiming to position China at the forefront of scientific exploration in the East China Sea. The Huangpu Wenchong Shipbuilding Company is overseeing the vessel's construction for Tongji University, headquartered in Shanghai.
Designed to be a versatile platform for scientific endeavors, the vessel will be equipped with cutting-edge technologies, enabling seamless collaboration with unmanned scientific equipment across various domains - air, sea, and submarine. It will serve multiple purposes, including marine geology, chemistry, biology, oceanography, as well as equipment deployment and recovery.
Emphasizing its intelligent and eco-friendly design, the vessel will offer a modular, comfortable, and convenient environment for research activities. Its internationalized features are geared towards enhancing scientific capabilities while keeping operational costs in check. Tongji University's vice president, Shi Zhenming, highlighted the vessel's role in supporting marine research expeditions, student internships, and the development of marine professionals.
Scheduled for completion by May 2025, the 2,990-metric-ton vessel boasts impressive dimensions of 82 meters in length and 15 meters in width, with a draft of four meters. It can accommodate up to 45 individuals, including 30 scientists, and can achieve a speed of 15 knots, ensuring efficient exploration capabilities.
Equipped with advanced laboratories and designed for all-weather operations, the vessel is poised to set new standards in marine research vessels globally. Its development represents a significant step towards advancing China's scientific prowess in marine exploration and nurturing future talents in marine-related fields.
