A basket mounted on a jettisonable frame at the front of Alvin is normally carried to receive and stow tools and scientific equipment and to collect samples.

Members of the research team install their equipment on Alvin’s basket, or sled. Scientists using the sub can bring up to 1,000 pounds of their own gear, which may include sediment corers, temperature probes, water samplers, and biological sample pumps.

 

Dr. Craig Cary, chief scientist, and Dr. Carol Di Meo inspect the preparation of the basket.

After Alvin returns to its hangar after a dive, scientists remove their equipment and samples and the crew prepares the sub for tomorrow’s dive.

 

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