The Environment of Operations

Abstract

The logistic support of a manned underwater structure requires the assimilation of a three-dimensional concept of the ocean environment. Environmental constraints on support operations will be imposed at the surface/air interface, through the water column and at the seafloor/water interface. The water depths of this application are roughly defined as from 200 m (from approximately the continental shelf break) down the continental slope and to depths approaching 2000 m. It is within this depth range that our investigations of the oceanic environment will be concentrated.