British startup DEEP has unveiled an innovative underwater module called Vanguard, allowing people to live and work on the ocean floor for several days. The pilot version has been installed off the coast of Florida at a depth of about 17 meters, reports infohub.kz.
Unlike most similar structures, Vanguard is anchored to the seabed and designed for long-term stays. Inside, the module resembles a compact camper van: it features four sleeping berths, a lounge area with a sofa, a kitchen, a bathroom combined with a scientific laboratory, and a special chamber for divers to exit into the water. Electricity, oxygen, and communications are provided by a separate floating module on the surface.
The company is already inviting research teams to test the underwater home. However, before that, they must undergo two weeks of training, after which they can spend up to five days underwater conducting scientific work.
The developers hope that this format will allow scientists to study coral reefs, marine ecosystems, and test new technologies without the need to surface daily.