A new steel pod designed for life beneath the ocean’s surface could transform how researchers explore and study the underwater world. Developed by U.K.-based marine company DEEP, the structure — named Vanguard — offers a controlled environment for extended underwater stays, allowing marine scientists to live and work under the sea for days at a time.
Revealed during a recent event in Miami, the 12-meter-long structure has been designed to operate at depths of up to 50 meters (164 feet). The pod includes basic necessities such as sleeping areas, a kitchen, and workstations, allowing up to four occupants to carry out scientific missions without the need for daily surfacing.
The structure has already been tested at a depth of 20 meters (65 feet) and is expected to dive deeper after more technical assessments. DEEP officials say it could eventually withstand extreme underwater conditions, including those caused by a category 5 hurricane.
Built for life below the surface
Inside Vanguard, occupants will find separate sleeping bunks, a kitchen space for meal preparation, and a small bathroom. A special entry point called a “moon pool” allows divers to access the ocean directly from within the structure.
Above the water, a floating buoy supplies the habitat with electricity, clean water, breathable air, and communication links. Waste is also managed through this connection. The system is designed to ensure the pod remains operational without needing constant support from the surface.
The underwater base that could 'make humans aquatic': Inside the steel pod 164ft below the surface where researchers will spend WEEKS at a time pic.twitter.com/Hu5SBEHf8g
— Nasim Haider (@NasimHaider2) November 1, 2025
DEEP’s goal is to expand human presence underwater — not just through short dives, but with continuous habitation. The company says that most of the ocean remains unexplored and hopes this project will lead to long-term studies of marine ecosystems.
According to DEEP, the pod’s ability to remain underwater for extended periods removes the limitations of current diving techniques, which often require researchers to return to the surface frequently due to pressure and safety concerns.
Future plans and global reach
Although Vanguard is still in its testing phase, DEEP plans to fully launch the structure in the coming months. Engineers are currently running simulations to ensure all systems work properly, especially in emergency conditions. While no specific launch date has been confirmed, the company expects to provide more details before the year ends.
Looking ahead, DEEP is developing a second, larger underwater facility called Sentinel. This future habitat will be located 200 meters (about 660 feet) below the surface off the coast of Wales and is designed more like an underwater hotel, with greater capacity and comfort for longer missions.
Both projects are part of DEEP’s broader plan to build a global network of underwater living spaces, which could eventually support scientific research, ocean conservation, and perhaps even tourism.