SeaOrbiter Project To Become A Reality

The experimental research ship Sea Orbiter has been given the full go ahead with the futuristic $43 million ship set to hit the waves as early as next year. The 50m high research ship will utilise technologies from solar power to wind turbines and is completely self-sustainable. Originally the brainchild of French designer Jacques Rougerie the SeaOrbiter is unique as a vessel in that nearly 50 per cent of its mass is actually underwater allowing for constant interaction with the ocean. Above the waterline however is the majority of the fin-like hull housing living-quarters, research labs and of course the observation deck and bridge. With partners like Microsoft already on board the Sea Orbiter is likely to be more suited to a science fiction film than reality and with it's entirely unique design it's hard not to be impressed.