UH marine scientists acquire deep-diving robot

Scientists from the University of Hawaii at Manoa’s School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology welcomed a new remotely operated vehicle to its fleet last week.

The new vehicle, named Luukai (“sea diver”), is capable of descending more than three miles and will be used to explore waters around the state and throughout the Pacific Basin. Luukai is equipped with manipulator arms, lights, sonar and high-definition still and video cameras.

According to a SOEST release, the new vehicle will support operations at the ALOHA Cabled Observatory and provide submersible capability to UH research vessels R/V Kaimikai O Kanaloa and R/V Kilo Moana.

Luukai’s first scientific mission is scheduled for Dec. 2.