Remotely Operated Vehicles

A remotely operated vehicle, or ROV, is an underwater robot. It is connected to a ship on the surface by a long cable. A pilot uses a joystick and screen to steer it from the ship. ROVs can go to places that are too dangerous for people.

What ROVs Do

ROVs are used for many jobs. Scientists use them to study sea life and the ocean floor. Oil companies use them to check pipes deep underwater. ROVs have cameras, lights, and robotic arms. They can take pictures, collect samples, and even fix things underwater.

Why ROVs Are Important

ROVs let us explore without putting people in danger. They can stay underwater for many hours without getting tired. Some ROVs have helped find shipwrecks and lost airplanes. They are an important tool for learning about the deep ocean.

Fun Facts

• Some ROVs can dive more than 20,000 feet deep.
• ROVs were used to explore the wreck of the Titanic on the ocean floor.
• The cables connecting ROVs to ships can be miles long.

Did You Know?

ROVs are sometimes called the eyes and hands of ocean scientists because they let people see and touch things far below the waves.