SYND 21-08-69 UNDERWATER OCEANOGRAPHER AND ENGINEER JACQUES PICCARD TALKS TO THE PRESS

The video discusses the mission objectives of the Métoscape Ben Franklin submarine, including demonstrating its capabilities, studying oceanographic problems, and life support systems in collaboration with NASA. The submarine, similar to the Auguste Piccard, was built in Switzerland and is designed for research with a capacity for six observers. It performed well without technical issues, featuring a unique battery system and stability that allows it to drift between two waters. The mission involved drifting in the Gulf Stream at varying depths.

What were the primary objectives of the Métoscape Ben Franklin mission?

• To explore the deepest parts of the ocean and discover new marine species.

• To establish a permanent underwater research station.

• To test the submarine's capabilities, study oceanographic problems, and address life support issues.

• To conduct military operations and test new weaponry.

How does the Métoscape Ben Franklin compare to the Auguste Piccard?

• It is larger and designed for military use.

• It is similar in design but built for research purposes.

• It is a prototype for future space exploration vehicles.

• It is smaller and used for recreational diving.

What is a notable feature of the Métoscape Ben Franklin's battery system?

• It is manually operated by the crew.

• It uses nuclear energy for long-term missions.

• It is entirely submersible and placed directly in seawater.

• It is solar-powered and charges during the day.

What unique capability does the Métoscape Ben Franklin have compared to other submarines?

• It can fly above the water surface.

• It can drift between two water layers without ascending or descending.

• It can communicate with satellites directly.

• It can transform into a surface ship.

What was the depth range at which the Métoscape Ben Franklin operated during its mission?

• Between 1000 and 2000 meters.

• Between 800 and 1500 meters.

• Between 50 and 100 meters.

• Between 200 and 700 meters.