Iconic 1960s ‘Flipping’ Ship Flip to Undergo High-Tech Revival
The innovative Floating Instrument Platform, or Flip, a 1960s Flipping Ship known for its ability to switch from horizontal to vertical orientation, is set to escape the scrapyard. Originally built in 1962 for the US Navy’s acoustic research, Flip was decommissioned last year. Now, UK-based ocean engineering firm DEEP has stepped in to bring the ship to Europe for a high-tech refit, preserving its unique history and expanding its potential.
A Revolutionary Vessel with a Unique Design
Flip stands out for its remarkable design, resembling a cross between a ship and a submarine. Measuring 108 metres (355 feet) in length, it can “flip” by submerging 90 metres (295 feet) of its hull in under 30 minutes, achieved by taking on 600 tons of water. When the vessel is vertical, it offers unmatched stability in rough seas, making it ideal for studying wave patterns, sound propagation, and various oceanographic phenomena.
DEEP’s acquisition marks a significant turning point for Flip, as the vessel was slated for demolition. Flip’s captain, Giulio Maresca, highlighted the importance of preserving the ship, saying, “We literally saved this amazing piece of history from being cut into pieces.”
DEEP’s Vision for Ocean Exploration
DEEP, a leading ocean exploration and technology company, aims to make underwater exploration as commonplace as land-based research. With the addition of Flip, they plan to modernise the vessel to allow broader scientific use. The company also intends to launch Sentinel, a 3D-printed underwater habitat designed to enable continuous underwater stays of up to 28 days at depths of 200 metres. This innovation eliminates the usual time constraints associated with traditional diving expeditions.
DEEP’s CEO, Kristen Tertoole, shared the company’s mission: “Our biggest challenge in ocean research is not just pollution, but our lack of understanding. Flip can be a vital tool for advancing ocean knowledge.”
Future Plans for Flip
The restoration of Flip will take place over the next 18 months in a shipyard in southern France. DEEP intends to integrate state-of-the-art technology, making Flip a cutting-edge platform for ocean research while maintaining its structural integrity. Once the refit is complete, Flip will contribute to groundbreaking research, enhancing understanding of our oceans and supporting DEEP’s goal of bringing ocean exploration to new heights.
Alternative Headlines
- DEEP Rescues Historic Flip Vessel for High-Tech Ocean Exploration
- Legendary ‘Flipping’ Ship Flip to Undergo Modernisation for New Missions
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1960s Flip Vessel Saved for High-Tech Ocean Research
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