research
From bottom landers to observatory networks
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Abstract
For a long time, deep-sea investigation relied on autonomous bottom landers. Landers can vary in size from 200 kg
weight to more than 2 t for the heaviest scientific landers and are used during exploration cruises on medium periods,
from one week to some months. Today, new requirements appear. Scientists want to understand in detail the phenomena
outlined during exploration cruises, to elaborate a model for future forecasting. For this, it is necessary to deploy
instrumentation at a precise location often for a long period. A new mode of ocean science investigation using longterm
seafloor observatories to obtain four dimensional data sets has appeared. Although this concept has been proposed
for many years, the high level of investment required limits the number of projects implemented. Only multidisciplinary
programs, supported by a strong social requirement were funded. Some observatories have been deployed