Argo (ROV)
Argo is a type of remotely operated vehicle (ROV) primarily used for scientific research and exploration in underwater environments. These vehicles are designed to be tethered to a surface vessel via a cable that provides power and communication. This tether allows operators to control the ROV's movements, operate onboard instruments, and receive real-time data and video feedback.
Argo ROVs are typically equipped with a suite of sensors and instruments, including cameras (both still and video), sonar systems, robotic arms, and various probes for measuring parameters such as temperature, salinity, pressure, and dissolved oxygen. The data collected by these instruments is valuable for studying marine ecosystems, geology, archaeology, and other scientific disciplines.
Key characteristics of Argo ROVs include their maneuverability, stability, and ability to operate at significant depths. Their design often prioritizes adaptability, allowing them to be customized with different payloads depending on the specific research objectives. The use of ROVs like Argo allows scientists to investigate areas that are inaccessible to divers or autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), offering a crucial tool for understanding the underwater world. The name may be derived from the ship Argo in Greek mythology.