Robotics
The Robots described in this section are capable of exploring the Edmond Vent Fields with different specialized capabilities. Briefly, the Sisters are AUVs (Autonomous Underwater Vehicles) that will create topographical maps and condition distribution models of the area. Superman is a specialized AUV who can operate at a very close proximity to the hazardous vent smokers. The ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) Tug does high precision tasks and experiments under a scientist's control. Drillette, another ROV, takes core samples near the event for geologic analysis. The Spiral Sensor array gives condition data around the vents from permanently installed sensor clusters. The Sensor fleet is a tool for specialized experiments. To make all of this possible, the Distant Docking Station provides a Power and Communication facility in the vent field.
Links include descriptions of individual projects and vehicles as well as the different areas considered and researched in the designing of the robots. The technical topic pages discuss topics and competing technologies at greater depth than in the individual robot descriptions.