The new-type geophysical comprehensive scientific research vessel of the South China Sea Institute of Oceanology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences took on its official name, Shiyan-6, at the vessel’s launchng ceremony held in Guangzhou, South China’s Guangdong Province.

The new vessel is expected to be put into use next year as an important offshore scientific platform for the development of China’s marine industry. The launch of the new ocean vessel will greatly improve the country’s deep sea scientific research capabilities.

Marine scientific research ships are one of the important ways people gain a deeper understanding of the ocean, and are the most important and effective platform, tool, and carrier for exploring and studying the ocean.

Shiyan-6 will enhance China’s exploration and basic data acquisition capabilities in the South China Sea and in deep oceans.

In addition, the vessel will play an active role in helping countries along the Maritime Silk Road improve ocean exploration capabilities and observation methods, conduct ocean surveys, marine environmental monitoring and protection as well as marine ecological protection and restoration, carry out marine disaster early warning and forecasting and disaster prevention and mitigation,  train marine observers and improve marine scientific and technological levels.

After launching, outfitting and interior decoration will begin and a mooring test is expected to be completed after cabin decoration ends in December.

Source: South China Sea Institute of Oceanology,

Chinese Academy of Sciences