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Welcome to Deep Sea Video. Our team is skilled in designing, building and operating shipboard audio/video systems and control rooms that support deep-sea research, engineering and exploration using Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROV).
Shipboard Systems and ROV Control Rooms
Modern ocean research and science commonly use Remotely Operated Vehicles, or ROVs. These vehicles are equipped with advanced imaging systems, including HD and 4K video cameras and high-resolution still cameras. With the significant investment in ship time and ROV costs, the content itself has become an important deliverable accompanied by accurate metadata that adheres to strict scientific standards. The proper management of these video signals requires a skilled team well versed in the complexities of scientific records and best practices for video production, data management, content verification and critical digital asset protection.
Case Study: The University of Washington spent several expeditions mapping and characterizing the seafloor in advance of deploying the Regional Cabled Array component of the National Science Foundation's Ocean Observatories Initiative. This cabled ocean observatory required carefully selecting cable paths along an active submarine volcano. The video from these ROV dives had to be meticulously recorded and protected as a mission-critical resource. The embedded metadata was instrumental in selecting and recording the optimal route for future cable lays, and all content was securely archived while at sea in an autonomous robotic LTO library.
Telepresence, Outreach and Education
In addition, high-bitrate satellite technology now enables a rich interactive connection to a global audience. Broadcast Operations are now required on many vessels as scientists reach out to colleagues, stakeholders, students, funders and the general public. Indeed, such outreach activities are now broadly required by the U.S. National Science Foundation. Scheduled, hosted events with shore-based aquaria and other centers are also standard fare for state-of-the-art deep-sea operations. All of these outreach efforts are dependent on qualified personnel with a broad skill set and the proper shipmate attitude. With limited berthing spaces and even tighter budgets, many researchers need well-rounded communications professionals to generate and manage their public-facing content.
Case Study: The team at Ocean Networks Canada has grown to the point where there are far more individuals involved in shipboard activities than can sail on the vessel. Starting in 2014, all Loggers and Scientists remained on shore, and they directed and logged all ROV operations via a high-bandwidth satellite connection, including an intercom link to shipboard operators. This enables them to participate in real-time in ROV operations to select instruments and sample collection sites. This has become the standard procedure for all subsequent ONC expeditions.
Still Photography
We can offer skilled Expedition Photographers to document shipboard operations. These stills engage audiences on social media and are useful year-round in your publications, social media presence, marketing and development efforts. Images can be provided under a Creative Commons license, or the client can own all of the images outright as a Work-For-Hire.
Proven Seagoing Experience
We staff only the finest industry professionals well-suited to life at sea for extended operations in tight quarters. Our personnel understand the constraints of shipboard work. We leverage decades of experience to solve problems in situ without relying on distant support or complex logistical solutions. We work within the constraints given to keep things running and meet mission objectives.
The overall goal is to serve this community by;
1. Performing scientific recording of video from ROVs with embedded positional and temporal metadata
2. Creating and managing live streaming video and webcasts
3. Serving as Video Producer and Mission Photographer
