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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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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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“Weekends with Yankee” Episode 904: Underwater Adventures

June 25, 2025

Weekends with Yankee host Richard Weise visits WHOI and learns about HOV Alvin.

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108 year old submarine wreck seen in new footage (CNN)

June 24, 2025

Video from CNN shows footage from Alvin of 108 year old submarine wreck.

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Illuminating the Abyss, Eos

June 24, 2025

The June issue of Eos includes articles about both mROV and Alvin. The mROV vehicles are highlighted as step in maintaining the US as the leader in the field and Alvin for upgraded capabilities allowing exploration of deeper depths and allowing access to 99% of the sea floor.

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WWI-era submarine ‘lost’ at sea for 108 years found off coast of San Diego (ABC World News)

June 3, 2025

ABC World News shows footage captured by Alvin showing sunken USSF-1.

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