Presenter(s):
H. Tuba Özkan-Haller, Oregon State University

Primary Convener:
H Ozkan-Haller, Oregon State University

Three Regional Class Research Vessels (RCRVs) – representing a new class of general-purpose oceanographic research vessels  – are currently under construction at Bollinger Shipyard in Houma, LA. These National Science Foundation-owned vessels are cutting-edge platforms that will soon provide scientists and educators with improved access to the marine realm. In this session, we will provide a refresher to the community about the history of the program, the development of the RCRV design, the science mission characteristics, and the capabilities of the vessels. We will also provide an update on the construction of each vessel, plans for sea trials, and next steps regarding the integration of these vessels into the U.S. Academic Research Fleet under the University-National Oceanographic Laboratory System (UNOLS).

Cross-Listed:
ED - Education
A - Atmospheric Sciences
B - Biogeosciences
OS - Ocean Sciences