Inspired by FLIP, Polar Pod to Explore the Mysteries of the Southern Ocean

We recently posted about the remarkable 61-year career of the one-of-a-kind research vessel FLoating Instrument Platform, known as FLIP. FLIP was essentially a massive 355-foot-long spar buoy used to study oceanic wave height, acoustic signals, water temperature, and density. Now, … Continue reading

Farewell FLIP, Famous Flipping Research Platform Heads Sent to Scrapyard

After 61 years of service, the one of its kind research vessel FLoating Instrument Platform, known as FLIP, has been retired and sent to a scrapyard.  I distinctly recall being absolutely fascinated by this engineering marvel when it was almost brand … Continue reading

FLIP Turns 50 ! Navy’s Floating Instrument Platform One Half Century Old

The Navy’s Floating Instrument Platform, better known as FLIP, went into service fifty years ago, in 1962.  The 355-foot research vessel is capable of operating horizontally as a conventional, if somewhat odd-looking, ship. When on station, however, it “flips” vertically 90 degrees and becomes the … Continue reading