An independent contractor has been hired to lay the MARS cable on the seafloor. Once this cable is installed, MBARI's remotely operated vehicle Ventana will be the main support vehicle used for installing, accessing, and maintaining the MARS infrastructure. Please follow the links below for additional details and specifications for Marine Operations Support, the ROV Ventana, and the Research Vessel Point Lobos.
- MARS Marine Operations Support
Details about support that will be provided for users, including specifications and testing facilities, such as MBARI's test tank.
- ROV Ventana
Description and specifications
PowerPoint show (.pdf) including several images and specifications
(Presentation created by ROV Ventana Chief Pilot Craig Dawe and includes additional specifications on Ventana, video system details, standard science interface, and the hydraulic system.)
- R/V Point Lobos
Description and specifications
Additional Information:
When deploying experiments, a standard science party compliment of up to six can be accommodated on the R/V Point Lobos.
MBARI also utilizes a large radio frequency and microwave system for transmitting, receiving, and distributing data. Remote feeds make data accessible to members of the science or engineering party who are unable to accompany the rest of the group on the vessel.
The R/V Point Lobos is a day ship, leaving the dock at 0700 hours and returning at 1630 hours. The length of time a scientist can expect to be on station is a function of how far the site is from shore, as well as how deep the deployment will be. The transit time to the MARS node will be 2–3 hours, depending on the exact destination. The amount of bottom time will vary, usually between 2.5–3.5 hours.