https://j.people.com.cn/n3/2026/0330/c95952-20441334.html

As a National Key Science and Technology Infrastructure Project, “Floating Island of the Deep Sea” has begun construction.

Undertaken by Shanghai Jiao Tong University, the super-large offshore research platform will possesses the capability to simultaneously address research needs in multiple fields, including marine equipment, marine resources, and marine science. The facility platform iresembles a “semi-submersible catamaran” ship design, possessing the capability to conduct actual sea trials of 100-ton class large deep-sea equipment and enable scientific exploration and experimental research at depths up to 10,000 meters.

It is scheduled for completion in 2030. Its unique design will enable research in fields such as marine equipment, marine resources, and marine science, providing a real-sea testing platform for deep-sea mining systems, critical auxiliary equipment for ships and marine applications, and offshore oil and gas equipment. It will also contribute to accelerating the commercial development and utilization of marine resources, elucidating the seasonal variation mechanisms of marine ecosystems, and exploring the origin and evolution of life. Furthermore, it is expected to improve the accuracy of typhoon forecasting and strengthen disaster prevention and mitigation capabilities.