The University of Aberdeen's award-winning Oceanlab deep sea research facility at Newburgh, Aberdeenshire will open its doors to visitors this weekend (Saturday September 7th, 1pm - 6pm) as part of Techfest - the annual Festival of Science and Technology in and around Aberdeen.
The £1.2m Oceanlab houses state of the art deep sea research facilities and allows scientists to test equipment and simulate conditions on the ocean floor - up to 3.5 miles beneath the surface. The lab has large test tanks, pressure vessels and environment chambers for testing robot lander vehicles that are used for investigations in the world's oceans. Oceanlab is the world's first purpose-built ocean lander laboratory. Dr Phil Bagley, Chief Engineer at the centre said: "We have a unique facility which is the first in the world for this kind of work. We test instruments at exactly the high pressure, dark, cold conditions that prevail at 3.5 miles depth in the ocean."
Open Day visitors will be able to view robot lander vehicles, see displays and exhibits, including samples of deep sea fish. Oceanlab staff will be on hand to explain the exhibits to visitors and discuss ongoing research projects. Professor Monty Priede, Head of the Oceanlab research team said: "I am delighted to be able to show people around this fantastic research facility. Visitors will be able to see videos and films we have obtained from different parts of the world. Whilst based at Newburgh, our research is now truly global, working throughout the world's oceans in both the northern and southern hemispheres. The surprising thing is that even in the deepest zones the ocean is full of life."
An exciting addition to the public display during the Open Day will be a giant holographic camera, the Holocam. This two ton camera takes 3D underwater pictures and is featured in the 2002 Guinness Book of Records as the most advanced holographic underwater camera. Dr John Watson, the camera's designer, will be on hand to sign copies of the book.
As well as the technical equipment and research facilities being open to visitors, the Oceanlab building and grounds will also be on view. Opened last year, this innovative energy saving building features a turf roof
seeded with stonecrop plants that continuously regenerates providing excellent insulation and a
maintenance free finish. The entrance area and stairs have wooden decking and handrails reflecting the building's maritime function. Oceanlab has become a notable local landmark and has been nominated for various architectural awards.
Further information on the Oceanlab Open Day is available from the Techfest Office tel: 01224 273960. Entry is free with the day suitable for adults and children.