SeaSoar Towed Oceanographic System Delivered
The Institute of Oceanology Chinese Academy of Sciences (IOCAS), Qingdao, has just taken delivery of a Chelsea SeaSoar towed oceanographic system. The sale has been facilitated by Chelsea’s agent, China ORES Co Ltd.
The SeaSoar system is fitted with a Chelsea MiniPack to measure conductivity, temperature, depth and fluorescence plus sensors to monitor turbidity and PAR. A Chelsea Plankton Sampler with flow meter has also been integrated plus third-party instrumentation. The Chelsea data and flight analysis software will enable the operator to have real-time control over the vehicle’s flight profile together with storage and display of the flight parameters.
Data obtained from the sensors mounted in the SeaSoar will be transmitted to the towing vessel for processing, display and storage via a multi-core tow cable. The SeaSoar system is to be on permanent deployment from IOCAS’s new Research Vessel, the Kexue Hao.
The purchase of the SeaSoar system satisfy the requirement of the IOCAS for a large payload towed oceanographic vehicle capable of undulating down to depths of 500 metres at tow speeds of up to 12 knots. The Chelsea SeaSoar was chosen for its proven track record in providing this performance, as well as providing a flexible payload.
Chelsea’s agent David Tang, China ORES, said that IOCAS is a centre of excellence for marine science in China and has over the last few years been upgrading its research facilities to enhance its marine sampling capabilities. The IOCAS now owns three research vessels (The Kexue Hao, Kexue-I, and Kexue-III), all of which have the capacity for open ocean expedition and have participated in large-scale international comprehensive ocean studies. The SeaSoar is suited to deployment from these vessels.
