100 Years of Discovery – Resources

In the run-up to the 100th anniversary, the current RRS Discovery will join its ancestral inspiration, the original RRS Discovery in Dundee from Friday 2 to Sunday 4 June 2023, where the past and present will stand in each other’s presence, serving as a reminder of the UK’s world leading ocean research capabilities and long-term commitment to future scientific ocean research.

To help celebrate, we have developed a range of resources that will help you learn more about RRS Discovery, including taking a virtual tour of some of its key facilities, learning more about its 2023 refit, hearing from the captain and crew plus getting a feel of what it’s like to travel on an expedition. If you’d like to learn more about NOC and our work, follow us on social media, sign up to our newsletter and check out our Into the Blue podcast.

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Virtual tours

Take an immersive tour of the Royal Research Ship using our photographic imaging and 360-degree scanning technology to get a feel for what life is like on board – access more areas of the ship.

2023 refit

In May this year RRS Discovery travelled to Rosyth in Scotland to undergo a refit in Babcock International's world class shipyard. The two videos below document what went into planning the refit as well as what the process is like. You’ll also get a look at Discovery while in drydock!

Crew interviews

Meet some key members of the RRS Discovery crew with these interviews. Here from the captain of RRS Discovery, Stewart Mackay, as well as the 3rd Officer, Rachel Astell. Find out all about their roles and responsibilities as well as what life is like at sea.

Life onboard

Ever wondered what it’s like to go out at sea on a research ship? Well the videos below show exactly what a scientific expedition is like not only for the scientists and engineers but also for the crew and support staff that enable the research.

Exploring the ocean

RRS Discovery enables our world-leading scientists to increase our knowledge of the ocean and further our understanding on how we need to look after it. While out at sea, RRS Discovery is a platform to allow research to take place, including the use of autonomous technology.

More about NOC

Our aim at NOC is to build a world where everyone feels empowered and inspired to help our oceans thrive. If you’d like to learn more about us then make sure to follow us on social media, sign up to our newsletter and check out our Into the Blue podcast.