Flipping FLIP ship saved from scrapyard at last minute
The FLoating Instrument Platform (FLIP), a unique research vessel, has been saved from scrapping and will undergo renovation in France, relaunching in early 2026 for future ocean research projects.
Read original article
The unique FLoating Instrument Platform (FLIP), a research vessel originally built by the US Navy, has been saved from being scrapped in Mexico. Designed to gather underwater acoustic data, FLIP is notable for its unusual design resembling a giant stalk of asparagus. It was commissioned in 1962 and decommissioned in 2023 after serving as a valuable floating laboratory. Recently, DEEP, an undersea design company, intervened to prevent its dismantling, with CEO Kristen Tertoole leading the effort to secure the vessel. FLIP has since been towed through the Panama Canal to a shipyard in France for renovation and modernization, which is expected to take 12 to 18 months. Tertoole emphasized FLIP's significance in maritime research and its potential role in DEEP's future projects, including habitat deployments. The vessel is anticipated to relaunch in early 2026, with interest already expressed by various oceanographic and research groups.
- FLIP was saved from scrapping by DEEP, an undersea design company.
- The vessel has been a significant research platform since its commissioning in 1962.
- FLIP will undergo renovation in France for 12 to 18 months.
- The relaunch of FLIP is expected in early 2026.
- The vessel will support DEEP's ocean research and habitat deployment initiatives.
Related
Submarine discovers ice shelf mysteries, then disappears without a trace
In 2022, researchers mapped the Dotson Ice Shelf's underside using the submarine Ran, revealing significant melt areas. In January 2024, Ran disappeared after one dive, complicating ongoing research on ice dynamics.
Judge orders removal of 1,000ft rotting ocean liner from Philadelphia pier
A federal judge has ordered the SS United States to be removed by September 12, 2024, due to environmental concerns, while the conservancy seeks political support for its future.
Wreck of 'Ghost Ship of the Pacific' Found Off California
The wreck of the U.S. Navy destroyer DD-224, captured in WWII, was rediscovered off California using autonomous drones, highlighting advancements in underwater exploration and marine archaeology.
'A huge loss': is it the end for the ship that helped understand life on Earth?
The Joides Resolution faces an uncertain future due to NSF funding cuts after September 2024, threatening vital oceanographic research and expertise essential for understanding climate change and geological processes.
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.
- Many commenters express excitement about its renovation and potential contributions to marine science.
- There is a nostalgic sentiment regarding FLIP's historical significance and engineering innovation.
- Some users share personal anecdotes related to FLIP, highlighting its impact on their lives.
- Concerns about the vessel's maintenance and unique design are discussed, with some questioning its classification as a ship.
- Links to related articles and videos are shared, indicating a broader interest in FLIP's story.
12 commentsIndeed. There was a time in the 1960s when the oceans were considered to be as important to explore as space. From the Futurama ride at the 1964 World's Fair:[1]
RP FLIP escapes wrecker's claws - https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=41964882 - Oct 2024 (50 comments)
Scripps 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)
Wikipedia:
Well, damn..
In this case it's probably unique enough that someone did the math on it and determined that for however many millions of euros are being spent to rehabilitate it in a shipyard, keeping it viable for another 10-15 years, it's less expensive than building an entirely new one to a custom design.
Very cool in any case, I'm glad it's been saved.
Related
Submarine discovers ice shelf mysteries, then disappears without a trace
In 2022, researchers mapped the Dotson Ice Shelf's underside using the submarine Ran, revealing significant melt areas. In January 2024, Ran disappeared after one dive, complicating ongoing research on ice dynamics.
Judge orders removal of 1,000ft rotting ocean liner from Philadelphia pier
A federal judge has ordered the SS United States to be removed by September 12, 2024, due to environmental concerns, while the conservancy seeks political support for its future.
Wreck of 'Ghost Ship of the Pacific' Found Off California
The wreck of the U.S. Navy destroyer DD-224, captured in WWII, was rediscovered off California using autonomous drones, highlighting advancements in underwater exploration and marine archaeology.
'A huge loss': is it the end for the ship that helped understand life on Earth?
The Joides Resolution faces an uncertain future due to NSF funding cuts after September 2024, threatening vital oceanographic research and expertise essential for understanding climate change and geological processes.
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.