Sun, Nov 1, 1998
Whether exploring the unknown wonders of the ocean depths, or finding ships that have disappeared without a trace, the submersible is one of the ultimate expressions of Mankinds curiosity and thirst for adventure. Submersibles come in a variety of extraordinary and innovative designs -- everything from bubble-shaped vehicles to robot-like contraptions with mechanical arms. In fact, they often look more like childrens toys than undersea vehicles. But they are vessels of enormous sophistication, strength and durability, built to transport human beings from the relative safety of the world of air and light into the potentially dangerous realm that lies deep beneath the surface of the ocean. Unlike their military cousins, the submarines, which are designed exclusively as warships, submersibles are geared toward research and exploration. They also require the support of larger mother ships which transport them to and from their work sites. Since the submersible was developed not as a weapon but as a tool in Mans quest for knowledge and scientific advancement, the role played by governments in funding and developing the unique vessels has been substantial. But the effort has been led by a small group of maverick designers and their craft who dared over time to pursue their own visions of undersea exploration. As we move into the future, these intrepid craft are probing ever further into an exotic watery environment whose untold mysteries could hold the key to not only to the development but perhaps even the ultimate survival of the human race.