On Sunday in Shanghai, China celebrated the launch of Tongji, its first intelligent ocean-class comprehensive scientific research vessel. This next-generation ship blends green, low-noise and AI-driven technologies to power a new era of marine exploration.
At 82 meters long and 15 meters wide, Tongji can host 15 crew members and 30 scientists. With an 8,000-nautical-mile range, the vessel is built for extended voyages into open seas, where it uses autonomous navigation and smart route planning to save energy and cut emissions.
Described as a floating campus for Tongji University, the ship's modular labs can be swapped out depending on research needs. From marine biology and ocean chemistry to geology and atmospheric science, researchers can load containerized labs tailored for each mission. The vessel also supports marine engineering tasks like undersea cable installation and maintenance.
By combining sustainability with cutting-edge design, Tongji highlights the growing role of intelligent technology in ocean science. As global challenges like climate change and biodiversity loss mount, such vessels are poised to help scientists uncover vital insights beneath the waves.
For young explorers, entrepreneurs and changemakers around the world, Tongji offers a glimpse of how innovative engineering and eco-conscious thinking can reshape research at sea.
Reference(s):
China delivers its first intelligent ocean-class research vessel
cgtn.com
