BATIUSP, Research submarine at University of São Paulo, Brazil
BATIUSP is a research submarine at the Oceanographic Institute of the University of São Paulo in Brazil. It features thick glass portholes, mechanical arms for sampling, and a reinforced hull that once allowed descents to considerable depths.
The Oceanographic Institute built the submarine in 1979 as the first Brazilian project of its kind. It explored the seafloor off the São Paulo coast and contributed decades of research on underwater life and rock formations.
The name combines "bathyscaphe" and the university initials, showing its academic roots. The vessel now sits on campus and helps students understand how scientists work beneath the surface to collect samples and record observations.
Most visitors view the submarine from outside and read the information panels on the university grounds. Tours or explanations by institute staff happen occasionally but usually require advance contact.
The steel pressure sphere can fit a small research team while withstanding enormous water pressure. Though no longer diving, the vessel shows the engineering needed to explore the dark and cold environment of deep waters.
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