Fendouzhe: the advancement of exploration and scientific research in the ocean depths.

Introduction

More after all, what’s Fendouzhe?

The first submarine to go to the deepest point in the ocean, the Mariana Trench. It was built by the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC). It can accommodate three crew members and is designed to reach depths of over 10,000 meters. China is one of the five countries, in addition to the United States, France, Russia and Japan, with technology for building submarines capable of reaching depths greater than 3,500 meters. (The main goal of the mission), other than testing diving technology, is the search for natural resources.

Until now, very few people have visited the bottom of the Mariana Trench, a depression in the Earth’s crust deeper than the height of Mount Everest. The first explorers visited the site in 1960 on a brief expedition. 

In November 2020, Fendouzhe made its historic maiden dive into the Mariana Trench,in the Western Pacific. Descending to an awe-inspiring depth of 10,909 meters (35,790 feet), Fendouzhe set a new national record for China. This remarkable achievement positioned it as the third manned submersible to reach the bottom of the Mariana Trench, following in the footsteps of great explorers.

Why is the sea not explored much?

In 2012, Hollywood director James Cameron made the first solo trip to the bottom of the Mariana Trench and described the environment as “bleak” and “strange”.

In summary, the ocean is poorly explored due to its depth, pressure, limited access, high costs, hostile environments, and limited knowledge. Overcoming these challenges requires advancements in technology and ongoing research efforts.

MAIN CHALLENGES OF STUDYING AND EXPLORING THE OCEAN

• PRESSURE

The high pressure at greater depths can crush structures and requires specialized equipment. Access to the depths of the sea is restricted, and the maintenance and repair of equipment are complex and costly. 

Pressure of sea water on objects will increase by 1 atmosphere (in pressure) for every 10 meters of depth in the sea.

• TEMPERATURE

The temperature at the bottom of the ocean can reach negative temperatures. 

• DARKNESS

Sunlight is the main source of light in the oceans, with its penetration typically ranging from 200 to 1,000 meters. In addition to this depth, other light sources, such as bioluminescent organisms and physical processes, contribute to the illumination of deep-sea environments. However, sunlight remains the main and most significant source of light in the ocean.

A challenge of Engineering

To withstand the extreme conditions of the deep sea, Fendouzhe is equipped with cutting-edge technology. Its specially designed titanium alloy hull ensures strength and resistance to the immense pressure encountered at great depths. With a length of approximately 10 meters and a weight of 22 tons, Fendouzhe features three main compartments: the command module, the control module, and the service module. These components provide the necessary infrastructure for exploration and scientific research.

Equipped with a range of scientific instruments and robotic arms, Fendouzhe ventures into the deep to collect samples, conduct experiments, and perform tasks on the seabed. Its crew, consisting of up to three explorers, don pressurized diving suits to ensure their safety and protection during the daring descents to the depths. Fendouzhe’s electric thrusters, powered by efficient batteries, enable precise and agile movement in the underwater environment, making exploration more accessible and effective.

Unveiling the Secrets

Fendouzhe’s missions go beyond reaching great depths; they aim to advance our understanding of marine ecosystems, underwater geology, and the potential discovery of new species and resources. With its scientific achievements, including the collection of samples and the recording of environmental data, Fendouzhe contributes to research and pushes the boundaries of human knowledge. Each dive reveals glimpses of the extraordinary world that lies hidden beneath the surface, inspiring awe and fueling curiosity.

Charting the Course Ahead

Fendouzhe represents a significant milestone in China’s underwater exploration technology. With its capabilities and advancements, it paves the way for future missions to investigate other challenging locations in the ocean. As scientists continue to delve into the depths, Fendouzhe will lead the charge in expanding our knowledge of the ocean’s mysteries, offering unparalleled opportunities for scientific breakthroughs and discoveries.

In the Pursuit of Excellence

The name “Fendouzhe” holds symbolic significance, embodying the spirit of challenge and the relentless pursuit of excellence by Chinese explorers. It represents the unwavering determination to unravel the secrets of the deep, to push the boundaries of human achievement, and to inspire future generations to strive for greatness.

Conclusion

Fendouzhe, the Striver, stands as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and our innate curiosity to explore the unknown. It represents the culmination of cutting-edge technology, scientific endeavor, and the unwavering ambition of China’s explorers. As Fendouzhe continues its remarkable journey, we eagerly await the new discoveries, insights, and adventures that lie ahead, as humanity continues to unlock the secrets of the deep ocean, one dive