Ocean Simulation Facility

The OSF, the world's largest and most sophisticated hyperbaric chamber complex, is the only hyperbaric research facility in the U.S. (government or civilian) which can certify manned systems. The chamber complex consists of a 55,000 gallon capacity wet chamber, five interconnected dry living/working chambers that can accommodate up to 12 divers, and elaborate subsystems necessary to provide life support, operator control, communication, fire protection, water conditioning, instrumentation, and data acquisition capabilities. The OSF is housed in a three-story building and is capable of simulating water depths to 2,250 feet sea water and water temperatures down to 34 degrees Fahrenheit. It is man-rated for safe operation to 1,000 psig and includes capabilities for independently varying temperature, salinity, light level, turbidity, and pressure, as necessary, according to project requirements.