Research Vessels
Research Vessels
Vessel Operations at The University of 51¶ºÄÌ Mississippi acts as a nonprofit support center with the goal to provide additional resources to help aid in research, education, and outreach programs along the Gulf Coast. The use of large vessels at USM enhances and expands the high—quality education and research opportunities the university is able to provide as a leading marine science institution, while providing valuable benefits to our community and associated marine economy.
R/V Point Sur
Our scientists develop and conduct research that informs resource management. We work with state, federal, and community partners to ensure that we understand scientific fishery needs, and focus our research efforts on how we can promote sustainable fisheries and habitats.
R/V Gilbert R. Mason
We provide research support to address the needs of governmental and commercial clients for information related to coastal and ocean navigation, the ocean floor and ocean processes.
R/V Ken Barbor
The R/V Ken Barbor became USM’s first optimally crewed, fully autonomous vessel, equipped with a state-of-the-art computer vision and autonomous navigation system to facilitate research into vessel autonomy in congested coastal regions. The vessel is an Endeavor 48-foot aluminum passenger vessel with a capacity of six passengers, updated and refitted to serve as an offshore research vessel to support USM’s School of Ocean Science and Engineering’s deep ocean underwater surveys using various uncrewed maritime systems (UMS).
R/V Jim Franks
Our research focuses on alleviating the bottlenecks that constrain the production of marine species. We work with industry, government and non-profit organizations to advance sustainable aquaculture on land and in coastal and marine environments.
Miss Peetsy B
Our programs provide the tools coastal residents can use to become more effective stewards and advocates for the Gulf of Mexico through innovative, field-based educational experiences.
R/V Tommy Munro
Our research focuses on alleviating the bottlenecks that constrain the production of marine species. We work with industry, government and non-profit organizations to advance sustainable aquaculture on land and in coastal and marine environments.