By combining NOC’s scientific expertise with Subsea7 and Seaway7’s global offshore operations, the project enables unprecedented access to remote deep-sea environments that would otherwise be difficult and costly to study. EITO utilizes existing remotely operated vehicle (ROV) technology onboard operational vessels, and marine life observations are captured during routine offshore activities before being uploaded to the EITO digital database.
With access to a global fleet of over 120 ROVs, this approach unlocks significant additional scientific value from existing operations. The database enables direct feedback between offshore crews and NOC scientists, improving understanding of species distribution and abundance in the deep sea and supporting long-term research outcomes, and evidence-based conservation and future scientific publications.
To celebrate the exceptional quality of submitted photography and footage, we run a quarterly competition highlighting the most impactful imagery. Winners are recognized in three categories: Scientific Value, Expanding Observational Capacity, and Artificial Structure Interaction.
Q2 2026 Winners
Scientific Value Award – Monkfish
- LOCATION | Norway
- DEPTH | 101 m
- SPECIES | Lophius piscatorius
- OBSERVED BY | Seven Viking
Expanding Observational Capacity Award – Grey Nurse Shark
- LOCATION | Australia
- DEPTH | 167 m
- SPECIES | Carcharias taurus
- OBSERVED BY | Seven Sisters
Artificial Structure Interaction Award – Muusoctopus
- LOCATION | Brazil
- DEPTH | 1,834 m
- SPECIES | Muusoctopus
- OBSERVED BY | Seven Merlin
To learn more about the winners, visit: https://www.blueoceanresearchalliance.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/BORA-SUMMARY-Q2-26.pdf
