What they want to discover under the sea
The objective is not just to dive into the shadows of the ocean. Scientists are seeking:
● To map and document unknown marine life on the ocean floor.
● To analyze the genetic evolution of species such as carnivorous sponges and echinoderms.
● To detect human pollution in remote areas, including microplastics.
● To create 3D models and educational content for museums and schools.
The robot that sees everything: SuBastian
The ROV SuBastian, a remotely operated underwater robot, descends to 4,500 meters, captures ultra-high-definition images, and gently collects samples from the seabed without damaging it. For the first time, this technology is being used in Argentine waters, marking a turning point in national oceanography.
From science to trending topic: millions follow the expedition live
The deep-sea show
Live broadcasts from the ocean floor —thanks to the SuBastian robot— have amassed over 1.6 million daily viewers. Users remain captivated by strange animals: transparent fish, hairy crabs, orange starfish… all thousands of meters below the surface.
Education, culture, and national pride
Beyond the visual spectacle, this scientific campaign is driving a wave of interest in marine science and conservation. The images will be used for education in schools, museums, and interactive media. Open data will also be generated for the global scientific community.
Science under pressure: the political backdrop of the expedition
As the sea rises, the budget falls
Although the expedition is thriving, the situation of CONICET on solid ground is critical. Budget cuts of 21%, suspension of scholarships, and mass layoffs contrast sharply with the massive interest in the project. This has led to protests and a national strike by researchers in defense of science.
A call from the depths
Argentine society, captivated by images of abyssal creatures, also seems to awaken to a deeper demand: the need to invest in knowledge, technology, and public science. Support messages for CONICET and calls for adequate funding are multiplying on social media.
Institutions that make it possible
Participating in the campaign are researchers from:
● CONICET
● Argentine Museum of Natural Sciences (MACN)
● IBIOMAR, IIMyC, IDEA, IBBEA, CADIC
● National universities of Buenos Aires, Córdoba, La Plata, and Mar del Plata.
Comments