Aluminaut

Aluminaut is a submersible, specifically designed and built to withstand extreme pressure conditions. It was the world's first aluminum submarine and was commissioned by the Reynolds Metals Company, a prominent firm in the aluminum industry. The Aluminaut was constructed in 1964 and was operational for over a decade, participating in numerous deep-sea expeditions and scientific research missions.

Design and Construction

The Aluminaut was designed by Jacques-Yves Cousteau, a renowned oceanographer, and built by the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics Corporation. The submersible was constructed entirely of aluminum, specifically a high-strength alloy known as 5086, which was capable of withstanding pressures up to 7,500 pounds per square inch. The Aluminaut measured 51 feet in length and weighed approximately 80,000 pounds.

Operational History

The Aluminaut was launched in 1964 and embarked on its maiden voyage in the Atlantic Ocean. Over the course of its operational history, the submersible participated in a number of significant missions. These included the recovery of a lost atomic bomb in the Mediterranean Sea in 1966, and the exploration of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the longest mountain range in the world, in 1969.

Legacy

The Aluminaut was retired in 1970 and is currently on display at the Science Museum of Virginia in Richmond. Its innovative design and successful operational history have made it a significant milestone in the field of underwater exploration.

See Also

• Deep Submergence Vehicle
• Bathyscaphe Trieste
• DSV Alvin