In May 2025, Orpheus Ocean planned to deploy its autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) in the Mariana Trench, marking a groundbreaking achievement in deep-sea exploration. This mission, a collaborative effort with the Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute (OECI), NOAA, BOEM, and USGS, represents a significant advancement in the use of this technology.
The Orpheus AUV, designed to reach depths of 11,000 meters, captured detailed images of polymetallic nodules on the seafloor. These nodules are of significant interest due to their unique geochemical properties and potential as critical minerals. The first working depth record for Orpheus was achieved east of the Mariana Trench, following successful tests at depths exceeding 6,000 meters. The mission utilized the Exploration Vessel Nautilus, which has played a key role in mapping and exploring the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf.
This successful deployment highlights the potential of AUVs in advancing deep-sea exploration and resource management. The collaboration between Orpheus Ocean and various organizations signifies a major step forward in understanding the deep ocean's complex ecosystems and mineral resources. This technology will accelerate our understanding of largely unknown environments.