Library Digital Collections

Old and New Challengers - Models of H.M.S. Challenger and D/V Glomar Challenger are shown with the tracks of Phase I of the Deep Sea Drilling project in the background. For propulsion, H.M.S. Challenger relied on her sails and suxilliary steam power of 1,234 horsepower. D/V Glomar Challenger can produce 8,800 continuous or 10,000 intermittent horsepower for propulsion and to operate the drilling equipment. Where H.M.S. Challenger shortened sails and used steam power to remain over a site, D/V Glomar Challenger has dynamic positioning. The first Challenger was 200 feet long and displaced 2,306 tons. Glomar Challenger is 400 feet long and displaces 10,500 tons. The scientific impact of both vessels has been revolutionary. While H.M.S. Challenger is generally thought of as beginning the science of deep ocean marine geology, the results of D/V Glomar Challenger's drilling and coring have truly revolutionized science.

Old and New Challengers - Models of H.M.S. Challenger and D/V Glomar Challenger are shown with the tracks of Phase I of th...