The iconic Jiaolong submersible is making waves with its latest upgrades, thanks to innovative domestic components! Starting in November last year, this deep-sea explorer has been reworked from battery to thrusters for turbocharged performance.
One of the biggest game changers is its cutting-edge 7,000-meter-class oil-immersed lithium battery system. Previously, recharging took nearly 10 hours after each dive, which slowed down operations. Now, with a recharge time of just three to four hours, Jiaolong is set to dive twice a day – an absolute win for deep-sea research! 🌊
Senior engineer and diver Zhang Yi from the National Deep Sea Center of China explained, "Before the upgrade, frequent missions were nearly impossible. But the new lithium battery system has turned the tide, allowing the submersible to perform multiple dives with enhanced efficiency."
The upgrades didn’t stop there. All seven thrusters have been replaced with domestically produced models, increasing cruising speed from 2.5 to over three nautical miles per hour and boosting thrust from 89 kg to over 100 kg. Plus, a new 36x zoom 4K HD camera now captures incredible detail – researchers can even spot the fine hairs on the tentacles of sea anemones!
Academician Li Jiabiao of the Chinese Academy of Engineering noted that these improvements in energy supply and propulsion mark a pivotal step towards more precise deep-sea operations. With plans for over 80 dives in 2025, this upgrade sets the stage for an exciting future in underwater exploration.
This remarkable transformation showcases the power of homegrown innovation, promising a dynamic leap forward in deep-sea research. Stay tuned for more updates on this thrilling journey beneath the waves! 🤩
Reference(s):
China's Jiaolong submersible upgraded with domestic components
cgtn.com
