Alvin, which is operated by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, has been in operation since 1964. The human occupied vehicle (HOV) is capable of reaching depths of 4,500 meters, carrying two scientists and one pilot for each dive.
Human Occupied Vehicle Alvin
Image courtesy of Luis Lamar, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. Download image (jpg, 477 KB).

Alvin, which is operated by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, has been in operation since 1964. The human occupied vehicle (HOV) is capable of reaching depths of 4,500 meters, carrying two scientists and one pilot for each dive.