Computer rendering of Alvin's successor

Back at WHOI on Cape Cod, Alvin's successor is now taking shape — in computer models, and wood and fiberglass mockups. Alvin, now getting hard to maintain, is to be retired in a few years. The new sub will retain the same time-tested basic components as Alvin — the massive spherical forged titanium pressure hull, the tough, pressure-resistant glass foam flotation material. But working conditions for scientists will be greatly improved — more room, faster dive and ascent speeds, access to almost the entire global ocean floor, and the ability to actually see the same outside view as the pilot.

In the decades since Alvin was conceived, highly effective unmanned, remotely-operated deep ocean exploration vehicles have been developed. Some now question the need for a new manned exploration sub, but Barrie Walden, manager of the Alvin group at WHOI, responds, "There are some benefits that you get from actually being there, looking around in person, that you just don't get..." from unmanned vehicles. "My argument really is that we need at least one manned submersible."