Manned underwater vehicles: A relevant and cornerstone technology for the future assessment of ocean eco-systems

Understanding the way sea life interacts in our oceans, some of the most complex life eco-systems on earth, is essential to our quest to manage this singularly important natural resource. This paper challenges the current research methodology whereby large complex research expeditions produce scientific data with a Top-Down approach to information flow. This approach is similar to space exploration where, because of the high cost of ldquoaccessrdquo to outer space, it makes sense to start with a space probe and then add mission specific instruments or projects to it. Ocean research for the past 40 years has used a similar model whereby large research programs are put in place, mobilizing significant assets with various scientific experiments supporting each expedition. This approach makes sense when there is a high cost of access which can then be distributed over many projects. If the conditions were to be reversed where cost of ldquoaccessrdquo was no longer the prime driver, then the concept of Bottom-Up research could become viable. This Bottom-Up approach would be based on a large number of independent small research teams, each with its own focus. A large number of projects would generate an open flow of independent exploration, and information from each project would flow upwards to form higher levels of understanding of the ecosystem interactions. Each research area would grow at its own rate but the information would be leveraged by a large number of independent researchers who all flow the information upwards into the ldquosystemrdquo data base. Just as it would be inconceivable to characterize or evaluate the ecosystems of Yellowstone National Park by looking through a fence, flying over by plane or satellite or even sending in probes; so it is for the ocean. Breaking down the barrier of expensive access would facilitate hundreds or thousands of researchers to go past the fence and explore specific areas of interest in the park. The most powerful research- tool available to humans is the gift of imagination, heuristics and the ability to make connections. The paper discusses our barriers to access the oceans and discusses how manned underwater vehicles could play a pivotal role in changing the fundamental way ocean research is conducted today.