The British-based Nekton Mission research vessel Ocean Zephyr made a broadcasting milestone in the Seychelles Ocean of Alphonse Island
Its first live underwater video aired concurrently from two crewed submarines and remotely operated submersibles using innovative new optical-transmission technology.
The first multi-camera live signal was successfully aired on 18, 19 and 20 March on Sky Atlantic and Sky News in full broadcast quality. Through cutting-edge technology, pictures were transmitted via the waves using the blue region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The first transmission came from 60 meters down.
Some of the world’s top scientists from more than 40 organisations are studying deep sea for seven weeks, mapping the sea floor and dropping sensors to depths reaching up to 2,000 meters in Seychelles’ waters.
The exploration of Seychelles’ ocean territory will record the effects of global warming and explore the region’s uncharted marine life. Additionally, the project will give training to local scientists and an educational platform for students across the globe through the live feed classroom.
Seychelles is carrying out groundbreaking environmental work, championing the issue of marine protection in the Commonwealth’s Blue Charter and committing to the protection of 30 per cent of their ocean by 2020.
