RV Thomas G. Thompson (T-AGOR-23)

The RV Thomas G. Thompson (T-AGOR-23) is a research vessel (RV) owned by the United States Navy and operated by the University of Washington's School of Oceanography as part of the University-National Oceanographic Laboratory System (UNOLS) fleet. Designated as an Auxiliary General Oceanographic Research (AGOR) vessel, the Thomas G. Thompson conducts a wide range of oceanographic research, including studies in areas such as physical oceanography, chemical oceanography, marine biology, and marine geology.

The vessel is named in honor of Thomas Gordon Thompson, a professor of chemistry and oceanography at the University of Washington. It was built by Trinity Marine Group (formerly Halter Marine) in Moss Point, Mississippi, and delivered in 1991.

The Thomas G. Thompson is equipped with a variety of scientific equipment, including winches, cranes, and laboratories, allowing scientists to collect data and samples from the ocean. It is capable of deploying and recovering a variety of scientific instruments, including remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). The ship also has advanced navigation and communication systems.

The vessel's home port is Seattle, Washington. It has conducted research expeditions in various parts of the world's oceans, contributing significantly to our understanding of ocean processes and climate change. The Thomas G. Thompson is a critical asset for oceanographic research and education, providing a platform for scientists and students to conduct cutting-edge research and train the next generation of oceanographers. The ship is typically crewed by a mix of professional mariners and scientific technicians.