science

Shanghai Jiao Tong University unveils 30-story floating research island for deep-sea science

Shanghai Jiao Tong University will build a 30-story semi-submersible research platform that can host 238 people, house six research centers, reach 10,000-meter research depth, and is due to complete construction by 2030.

Apr 2nd 2026 · China

Insights

  • Project is named Deep-Sea All-Weather Resident Floating Research Facility, or Open-Sea Floating Island.
  • The 30-story semi-submersible will have a deck area the size of two football fields.
  • It will accommodate 238 people and include a moon pool large enough for a full grown blue whale.
  • The platform will house six major research facilities, including a marine disaster lab and marine meteorology installations.
  • It is designed to support experiments to 10,000 meters, operate for extended missions, and finish construction by 2030.