In pictures: Underwater marine lab
SeaOrbiter underwater lab
Designs for an underwater marine research facility called SeaOrbiter will take between 18 and 22 scientists into the abyss.
SeaOrbiter underwater lab
The SeaOrbiter stands at 170ft high, with two-thirds of the structure underwater to provide stability for the vessel. It will allow the marine biologists onboard to see up to 6000 metres underwater.
SeaOrbiter underwater lab
Powered by solar, wave and wind power, the SeaOrbiter was desugned by French architect and academic Jacques Rougerie and construction is due to start in 2014.
SeaOrbiter underwater lab
The Seaorbiter project has found backing with NASA and the European Space Agency, as the atmospheric pressure underwater is similar to the conditions found in space.
SeaOrbiter underwater lab
The SeaOrbiter project is expected to cost around $52.7 million and the team hope to crowdfund at least part of the build.
