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Deep ocean shipwreck exploration utilizes robots called remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) to serve as the eyes and hands of the archaeologist, who can direct operations from thousands of feet above a shipwreck site.
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A remotely operated vehicle (ROV) is prepared for launch.
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Artifacts in the deep ocean are often in a remarkable state of preservation.
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An artifact is gently recovered from the seabed nearly 1700 feet deep by a soft rubber limpet attached to the manipulator arm of a ROV.
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Odyssey's ROV, nicknamed ZEUS at work in the deep ocean.
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The term "shipwreck" evokes fascination and excitement; conjuring vivid images of sunken treasure, dangerous conditions and exotic locations. However, those adventure-filled tales contrast with the reality of shipwreck exploration in the modern age. It is an ever evolving state-of-the-art industry, dependent upon advanced technologies, well organized business plans and international relations. It is an industry developing guidelines for sound archaeological practices and for ensuring the highest professional standards.
Until recently, virtually all shipwreck discoveries were made in shallow water. Now, most of the best potential shipwreck targets are in the deep ocean. While the expenses for shipwreck search and excavation in the deep ocean are high, these wrecks exhibit several characteristics that make them more suitable than shallow water wrecks for legitimate commercial operations. They include:
- It is easier to secure title to shipwrecks in international waters.
- Deep shipwrecks tend to be in one capsule, not scattered across the sea bed.
- Difficulty of access provides good site security.
- Archaeologists need commercial financing to reach deep sites.
- Deep shipwrecks have probably not been previously salvaged.
- High costs dictate professionalism in commercial operations.
- Due to low oxygen and light levels and the absence of storm and wave action in the deep ocean, artifacts are often in an amazing state of preservation, and are not usually encrusted with coral or marred by other elements.
We have now entered a new era of exploration where state-of-the-art technologies enable the search, discovery and recovery of shipwrecks that were previously beyond reach. Experts predict that over the course of the next thirty years, most of the valuable shipwrecks throughout the world may be found.
Odyssey Marine Exploration is transforming activities long associated with "pirates and treasure hunters", into a serious and legitimate commercial industry founded on strong business practices, a commitment to the environment and high archaeological standards. In addition to its role preserving our cultural heritage, the deep-ocean exploration industry will lend itself to interdisciplinary scientific studies including such fields as oceanography, marine biology, environmental research and bio-engineering.
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