AUV URASHIMA 8000

A Deep-Sea Explorer and the World's Largest AUV

Deep Sea Cruising AUV URASHIMA 8000 has been under development since 1998, and after several times modifications and system replacements, it is now used for deep-sea research.
Based on the necessity for detailed observations in the ultra-deep sea and our operational experience to date, in 2022, a major upgrade project was launched to extend URASHIMA ’s operational depth to 8000 m.

AUV Urashima8000の画像

Equipment

うらしま8000調査機内の図

Turning the Ocean Floor into Hi-Res Bathymetric Maps

URASHIMA 8000 uses high-frequency sound waves (400 kHz) close to the seafloor while exploring the seafloor bathymetry, whereas the mother ship explores from the sea surface.

深海巡航探査機「うらしま8000」の画像

Comparison of seabed topography maps in the Japan Trench（at a depth of approximately 7500 m）
（L：Data acquired by vessel in the past　R：Data acquired by URASHIMA 8000（25–26 July 2025）

Image of undersea exploration by URASHIMA 8000

Large science payload compartment

URASHIMA 8000 ’s survey instruments payload compartment is big enough to hold four adults. Large survey instruments such as water samplers, magnetometers, and gravimeters can be mounted.

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