Indian scientists are embarking on a pioneering mission named Samudrayaan, set to send a domestically developed submersible called Matsya 6000 to the depths of the ocean. This ambitious project aims to explore the ocean floor, particularly for precious metals like cobalt, nickel, and manganese. Matsya 6000, under development for two years, boasts a robust design, featuring a 2.1-meter titanium sphere capable of withstanding immense pressure at 6,000 meters depth. The mission is part of the Deep Ocean Mission, with sea trials planned at a depth of 500 meters in early 2024. This venture sets India among a select group of countries with manned submersibles.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Cobalt, Nickel, and Manganese: These are valuable metals and minerals found on the ocean floor, which the Samudrayaan mission aims to explore for potential extraction. They are essential in various industries, including technology and manufacturing.
- Matsya 6000: Matsya 6000 is a domestically developed submersible designed to withstand the extreme pressure of 6,000 meters underwater. It will be used in the Samudrayaan mission to explore the ocean depths.
- Deep Ocean Mission: This initiative encompasses the Samudrayaan mission and aims to study and explore the vast depths of the ocean. It involves scientific research, resource assessment, and technology development for deep-sea exploration.
- Chemosynthetic Biodiversity: This refers to the unique ecosystems that thrive near hydrothermal vents and low-temperature methane seeps in the ocean. These ecosystems rely on chemical processes rather than sunlight for energy, supporting diverse life forms.
- Sea Trials: Sea trials involve testing the functionality and performance of Matsya 6000 and other equipment in the ocean, ensuring they can operate effectively at extreme depths and conditions before the actual mission.
