RP FLIP escapes wrecker's claws
The R/P FLIP, a U.S. Navy research vessel, was saved from scrapping by DEEP and is being modernized for underwater missions, with a relaunch planned for early 2026.
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In August 2023, the R/P FLIP (Floating Instrument Platform), a unique U.S. Navy research vessel, was on its way to Mexico for scrapping after over 50 years of service in oceanographic research. However, Giulio Maresca from the subsea design firm DEEP learned of its fate and mobilized a team to save it. FLIP, designed to flip from a horizontal to a vertical position, has been instrumental in studying marine life and ocean dynamics since its commissioning in 1962. After negotiations, DEEP acquired FLIP, which is now undergoing a 12 to 18-month refit in Barcelona. The company plans to modernize the vessel to support underwater living and research missions, enhancing its capabilities for future oceanographic studies. The scientific community has shown immediate interest in utilizing FLIP for research purposes. As it prepares for a relaunch in early 2026, FLIP symbolizes a blend of historical significance and future potential in ocean exploration.
- The R/P FLIP was saved from scrapping by the subsea design firm DEEP.
- FLIP has been a key vessel in oceanographic research since 1962, known for its unique flipping capability.
- DEEP plans to modernize FLIP for underwater living and research missions.
- The vessel is currently undergoing a refit in Barcelona and is set to relaunch in early 2026.
- There is significant interest from the scientific community in utilizing FLIP for future research.
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6 commentsScripps Institution of Oceanography’s FLIP vessel decommissioned after 60 years - https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=37072588 - Aug 2023 (51 comments)
A ship that flips 90 degrees for precise scientific measurements - https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=15078094 - Aug 2017 (75 comments)
"Flip", the vertical ship, marks 50 years at sea - https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=4193185 - July 2012 (34 comments)
I felt sure there was a more recent one but I think I got it confused with this:
The Joides Resolution may have sailed its last expedition - https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=41785543 - Oct 2024 (3 comments)
It is sobering to know that humanity is continuing to make wholesale mistakes that are only offset by a wonderful minority. You could be the next person to save a different Flip.
Visions of Sealab 2020, Sealab 2021 , and Rapture all come to mind, hopefully we'll the former.
Their Career's page gives the impression it might be a start up coming out of stealth or something?
Is there some nautical tradition that prescribes that?
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