A 300-metre science exploration vessel packed with green technology, a “science sphere”, and the capacity to hold more than 400 people on board has been revealed.
Penned by Iddes Yachts, Earth 300 is described as a vessel “that will unite science and exploration to confront earth’s greatest challenges," by Iddes Yacht founder Ivan Salas Jefferson.
The vessel will act as an extreme technology platform for science, exploration and innovation at sea, incorporating robotics, AI and 22 state-of-the-art on board laboratories.
“The ship will introduce features found on cruise, expedition, research and luxury yachts but she will be none of them,” said Earth 300 chief executive Aaron Olivera.
Featuring naval architecture by NED, Earth 300 will be emission-free and powered by Molten Salt Reactors, which provide sustainable, clean energy.
Other features include a science city housed inside a huge sphere, an observation deck, a 46-metre beam and an interior dedicated to scientific research and expedition. The vessel will also carry a selection of advanced underwater vehicles.
Accommodation will be for a total of 160 scientists, 20 experts-in-residence, 20 students, 40 VIP guests and 165 crew.
Led by chief executive Olivera, the Earth 300 project is supported by a number of partners including IBM, RINA, Triton Submarines and EYOS Expeditions.
The preliminary vessel design and naval engineering are now complete, with Earth 300 projecting a launch date of 2025.