Expanded Research Potential
Private support enables the anticipated arrival of the research vessel Bob and Betty Beyster at our institution
The R/V Bob and Betty Beyster is not only equipped with advanced scientific instrumentation, but it also benefits from additional philanthropic contributions that enhance its capabilities.
- Marine Archaeology: The directors of the Scripps Center for Marine Archaeology have donated a mini remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to the vessel. This equipment will aid in archaeological research, allowing for the exploration and documentation of underwater sites.
- Marine Mammal Acoustics: John Hildebrand, director of the Scripps Marine Mammal Research Program, and Simone Baumann-Pickering, a marine ecologist, have supported the acquisition of a hull-mounted transducer for underwater communications on the R/V Bob and Betty Beyster. This technology will enable researchers to study marine mammal acoustics more effectively, contributing to a better understanding of these vital marine creatures and their environments.
- Autonomous Vehicles: The knuckle crane acquired by oceanographers Eric Terrill and Luc Lenain will enable the vessel to deploy and recover autonomous vehicles. These vehicles can collect data over extended periods, providing valuable insights into various oceanographic phenomena.
Fundraising Efforts
The R/V Bob and Betty Beyster was raised through a philanthropic initiative that collected over $1.2 million. Additional philanthropic contributions to the endowment to support scientific time at sea for students can be made online or by contacting the development office at Scripps. A plaque honoring donors to the vessel at the $10,000 level or above will be on display at Birch Aquarium at Scripps in 2019.
The gifts for both the vessel and the dock contribute to the Campaign for UC San Diego, the university's $2 billion comprehensive fundraising effort.
Availability and Location
The R/V Bob and Betty Beyster will be owned by Scripps Oceanography and is expected to be available for use in San Diego later this spring. It will be maintained alongside several other research vessels at the Nimitz Marine Facility. More information on the Scripps fleet, including the R/V Bob and Betty Beyster, can be found on the Scripps Oceanography website.
The floating dock will be installed at Scripps' Nimitz Marine Facility in Point Loma.
Context and Importance
The R/V Bob and Betty Beyster is a significant addition to Scripps Oceanography, one of the world's most important centers for global earth science research and education. The vessel will provide unparalleled education and training for the next generation of scientific and environmental leaders, while also supporting local research, technology development, and ocean-based education.
The endowment to support scientific time at sea for students will continue to raise funds to provide ongoing student access to the R/V Bob and Betty Beyster, ensuring that the vessel remains a vital resource for marine research and education for years to come.
The acquisition of a hull-mounted transducer for underwater communications on the R/V Bob and Betty Beyster is an example of how technology enhances oceanographic research, specifically marine mammal acoustics studies.* The advanced equipment onboard the R/V Bob and Betty Beyster*, such as autonomous vehicles and mini remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), allows for a wide range of research, including oceanographic research, marine archaeology, and marine mammal acoustics, demonstrating the integration of gadgets and technology in these fields.
