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Schmidt Ocean Institute, a key player in ocean exploration

March 12, 2025

Schmidt Ocean Institute is a non-profit organization with the primary mission to support the exploration, discovery, and understanding of the world's oceans through innovative marine research, cutting-edge technology, and open access to knowledge.

Established in 2009 by Eric and Wendy Schmidt, the institute operates the advanced research vessel R/V FALKOR (too), which is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, high-resolution mapping systems, and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) to enabling international scientists to explore and study the deep sea.

The institute offers free ship time to scientists, engineers, and researchers from around the world, fostering innovation and collaboration in ocean science. Researchers use this platform to tackle some of the most pressing questions about marine ecosystems and the ocean’s role in climate regulation.

Schmidt Ocean Institute contributes significantly to advancing oceanography and marine conservation, playing a pivotal role in uncovering the mysteries of Earth's least explored frontier: oceans.