New Research Vessel The oceanographic research vessel Belgica has celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2009. The lifetime of research vessels is estimated to 30 years. For this reason steps were undertaken to study the different options for its replacement. In 2009 the Belgian Science Policy Office commissioned a feasibility study to Techmar international (in collaboration with ULg) on the purchase options for a new oceanographic research ship or modernisation of the existing oceanographic research vessel. The conclusion of the feasibility study was that modernisation of the Belgica is not recommended and that a new built is necessary to comply with the needs of modern marine scientific research. Based on a questionnaire and different meetings with the Belgian marine research community regarding their needs, a preliminary design of an eventual future ship has been drawn up. The full report and synthesis note can be downloaded here below:
|
 |
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
