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We put the deep ocean within reach.

 Our Vehicles. Your Tools.

NDSF operates a fleet of underwater vehicles that enables the oceanographic community to explore, sample, and map the deep ocean and to meet the needs of a changing research landscape.

HOV ALVIN

A 3-person research submersible capable of reaching 6500 meters depth and of supporting custom sensors and samplers. The Alvin Team delivers reliability built from more than 5,000 successful dives.

ROV JASON

A time-tested remotely operated vehicle system capable of multi-day missions to 6500 meters. Observers get real-time, HD video and data, as well as physical samples from the seafloor.

AUV SENTRY

A flexible, fully autonomous vehicle rated to 6000 meters that carries a wide and growing array of instruments. The Sentry Team is also skilled at carrying out multi-vehicle missions.

Dive with us

Plan an expedition

From proposal preparation to cruise logistics to data access, we help you execute a successful research mission.

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Use cases

Learn how NDSF vehicles can increase data collection and take better advantage of your time at sea.

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First time user?

Learn how our assets can extend your research to depths you may have never thought possible.

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Call for Nominations – UNOLS Deep Submergence Science Committee (DeSSC)

July 30, 2025

Nominations are due by August 31st, 2025. The UNOLS Deep Submergence Science Committee (DeSSC) is seeking nominations to fill one membership vacancy. Self-nominations are encouraged! The DeSSC is the UNOLS Committee charged with providing advice and guidance for the National Deep Submergence Facility (NDSF) operator on matters concerning utilization, upgrades, and long-term planning of its…

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Alvin discovers volcanic eruption in East Pacific Rise

July 28, 2025

Dr. Andrew Wozniak (University of Delaware) led an Alvin cruise to the East Pacific Rise where Alvin discovered an eruption was taking place. Watch the footage from before and after the eruption.

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Dr. Amanda Demopoulos’ expedition to the Aleutians with Alvin

July 28, 2025

Read about Dr. Amanda Demopoulos’ expedition to the Aleutians with Alvin. 

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Kaitlyn Beardshear – Humans of WHOI

July 28, 2025

Read about how Kaitlyn Beardshear became the 46th Alvin pilot in Humans of WHOI.

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Sentry demonstrates grace under pressure – OET 2024 Field Season Annual Report

July 1, 2025

During operations in American Samoa on the Nautilus with OET, Sentry demonstrated capabilities during significant challenges resulting from diving at the vehicle’s near maximum depth. 

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UTD Geoscience Short Films Including Jason’s Deepest Dive

June 25, 2025

University of Texas Dallas’ Geoscience Studio short films from the recent ROV Jason cruise on R/V Thompson. This cruise included the deepest dive for Jason!

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