global class research vessel to launch ROV

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is seeking a regional or global class research vessel capable of launching ROV Jason or similar to support the re-occupation and re-battery of an existing seafloor geodetic benchmark at ~3100 meters water depth offshore northern California and the Cascadia subduction zone. The planned operations are as an add-on to currently funded National Science Foundation (NSF) cruises led by partner Scripps Institute of Oceanography (SIO). Key requirements for the vessel include: • The ability to launch ROV Jason or similar • A heavy-lift overboard handling system (crane/A-frame/winch) • A dedicated Jason or similar control van with pilot, engineer, navigator, and science stations • A data center for real-time video, sonar, and sensor data compatible with ROV Jason or similar • The ability to operate in water depths greater than 3,000 meters • Dynamic positioning and stability to operate ROV Jason or similar The contract award will not be determined solely by cost alone. Experience in this type of scientific work, workspace accommodations, method of deployment of equipment, and ability to operate equipment on similar platforms will be considered.