MIR FEATURES

Visibility / Viewing ports
The pressure hull consists of two semi-spherical nickel steel spheres joined horizontally. Fitted into the sphere are three viewing ports, one 200mm (7 ½ inches) and two 120mm (4 ½ inches), allowing the pilot extensive vision forward and the two observers viewing from the side-forward facing ports.

Comfort
The submersible is entered through a top-opening hatch. The pilot and two observers sit or lie comfortably on padded seating whilst contained at one atmosphere within the 2.1 meter (7.0 feet) diameter sphere.

Reliability
The two MIR submersibles have logged over 720 successful dives between them since their launch in 1987.

Simultaneous two Sub operation
The dual submersible MIR operation is like no other 6,000 metre (19,680 feet) operation of its kind. The MIR's can operate either simultaneously or independently. They are able to mutually assist and guide one another yet they do not rely on one another. This two-sub operation is a feature that strongly appeals to filmmakers

Ease of Handling / Thrusters
A main stern thruster and two side thrusters provide excellent manoeuvrability on the ocean floor. They MIRs are capable of a top speed of 5 knots.

Life Support
The life support system installed in the submersible allows for 246 man-hours of life-support. This equates to 3.5 days of life support per person.

Navigation
Prior to diving a series of navigation transponders are deployed. The positions of these transponders are then integrated into a grid pattern relative to latitude and longitude. The MIR submersibles then navigate within this grid pattern. The MIR's are also equipped with a depth sounder, long distance sonar and compass.

Manipulators
Each MIR is equipped with two manipulators. Each manipulator has seven functions plus a rotating jaw.

Sonar
Each MIR is fitted with a 250 metre (820 feet) acoustic imaging sonar allowing it to not only detect the bottom as it approaches but also to locate objects both manmade and geological on the ocean bottom.

Launch and Retrievals
The MIR's are launched from a 27-tonne crane mounted on the starboard side of the RV Keldysh. Each MIR has a hangar within which it is stowed in whilst on board the vessel. A smaller tow vessel is used to position the MIR's for launch and retrieval.

Lighting
Any combination of lighting packages can be installed on the MIR's. Lights available include 1200 watt and 400 watt HMI lights.

Filmmaking
A package of cameras and lighting equipment can be fitted to the MIR's to enable filmmaking. An optional pan and tilt mechanism, high definition video system and specialised deep water housing is available extra at a negotiated cost. Internal monitors can be installed inside the pressure sphere along with interior cameras. An important feature of the double submersible team is the ability to use one submersible for lighting and the second submersible for filming.

Pilots and Sub Crew
Many of the Russian team of 25 submersible pilots and engineers have been working with the MIRs since their launch and prior to that on other submersibles operated by the PP Shirshov Institute. This is reflected in the efficient way the team functions. All MIR submersible operations are conducted in a highly professional and safe manner.

MIR Brochure

MIR_sub.pdf (Requires Acrobat 547k)