Ocean Exploration Trust (OET) and the Nautilus Exploration Program explore the ocean, utilizing advanced seafloor mapping and robotic technologies, while connecting that exploration to the world in real-time via a high-bandwidth satellite. Established in the United States in 2007, OET partners primarily with United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Ocean Exploration through the NOAA Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute, and also with NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries, and other government agencies, academic institutions, and the private sector to advance the field of deep-sea exploration and to engage the public and next generation. NOAA Ocean Exploration’s domestic efforts are in support of the US’ National Oceanic Mapping, Exploration, and Characterization strategy and all NOAA-supported data is stored via National Centers for Environmental Information.
Expeditions are launched aboard Exploration Vessel (E/V) Nautilus —a 68-meter research vessel equipped with remotely-operated vehicles (ROVs) and with collaborative technology partners. During the expeditions, OET offers global scientists, educators, students, and the public a remote exploration experience via live video, audio, and data feeds from the field, as well as ship-to-shore interactions direct to classrooms and public venues around the world.
OET will be supporting Seabed 2030 by collecting bathymetric data and producing high-resolution maps of the world’s ocean during each of the research expeditions.