HOV Alvin enables in-person observation and sampling in deep-sea environments, which is critical for: studying hydrothermal vents, cold seeps, and coral habitats; collecting biological, geological, and chemical samples; and deploying instruments and conducting video surveys. Operating Depth: 6,500 m (21,325 ft); Sampling Tools: Two Schilling Titan manipulators, sample basket, water samplers, tube corers, bio boxes; Science Payload: ~181 kg (400 lbs).

Jason is a two-body ROV system. A 10-kilometer (6-mile) reinforced fiber-optic cable delivers electrical power and commands from the ship through Medea and down to Jason, which then returns data and live video imagery. Medea serves as a shock absorber, buffering Jason from the movements of the ship, while providing lighting and a bird's eye view of the ROV during seafloor operations. Jason is equipped with sonars, video and still imaging systems, lighting, and numerous sampling systems. Jason's manipulator arms collect samples of rock, sediment, or marine life and place them in the vehicle's basket or on "elevator" platforms that float heavier loads to the surface. Pilots and scientists work from a control room on the ship to monitor Jason's instruments and video while maneuvering the vehicle. The average Jason dive lasts one to two days, though operators have kept the vehicle down for as long as seven days.