UC San Diego has just chosen the naval architectural and marine engineering firm Glosten to build a new vessel. It will be outfitted with a hybrid hydrogen propulsion system and be used for coastal studies.
This ship, which was unveiled a year ago, is regarded as a true revolution for the marine industry. It will feature a distinctive propulsion system with fuel cells and a diesel-electric system that is over 40 meters long. At least $35 million will be spent on its development.
Glosten claims that by running solely on hydrogen, the boat will be able to do 75% of its tasks at sea without releasing any carbon dioxide. Larger missions will require more power, which will also be supplied by environmentally friendly diesel generators.
A wide range of sensors, such as acoustic Doppler current profilers, systems for mapping the seabed, images for mid-water fishing, and biological and geological samples, will be installed on the 38-meter vessel.
Once constructed, it will join the Scripps Institute of Oceanography’s fleet. As a result, it will enable research on the Californian coast and the effects of climate change on its ecology to be conducted.
