Submarines are one of the most fascinating pieces of technology ever created. They can go deeper than any other type of ship and stay hidden from view for extended periods of time, making them ideal for use in military and scientific operations. But just how far can submarines go?
The Depth of Submarines
The depth of a submarine can vary greatly, depending on its size and design. The deepest submarine ever built was the Russian K-159, which was launched in 2003 and reached a record depth of 10,911 feet. The deepest submarine ever deployed was the USS Trieste, which reached a depth of 35,800 feet in the Mariana Trench in 1960.
The deepest a modern submarine can go is limited by the design of its hull. The pressure at the bottom of the Mariana Trench is 1,000 times greater than at the surface of the ocean, and the hull of a submarine must be able to withstand this pressure. The deepest submarines today are designed to go to depths of up to 5,000 feet, though some can go a bit deeper.
How Long Can Submarines Stay Underwater?
The length of time a submarine can stay underwater is limited by its power supply, air supply, and other onboard systems. A modern nuclear-powered submarine can stay submerged for months at a time, but the longest ever submerged mission was the USS Nautilus, which stayed underwater for 84 days in 1958.
The length of time a submarine can stay underwater is also limited by the amount of food and water onboard. On longer missions, submarines must come to the surface to replenish their supplies.
The Range of a Submarine
The range of a submarine is limited by its fuel supply and speed. The fastest submarines can reach speeds of up to 35 knots, but the average speed is closer to 20 knots. The range of a modern submarine is typically around 10,000 nautical miles, though some can go farther.
Submarine Communications
Communication from a submarine to the surface is typically done using radio or satellite communications. Submarines can also communicate with other submarines using a form of underwater “telegraph” known as the Very Low Frequency System (VLF). This system uses very low frequencies that can travel long distances underwater.
Submarine Sensors and Sonar
Submarines use a variety of sensors to detect their surroundings. These include radar, sonar, and thermal imaging. Sonar is an acoustic system that can detect objects in the water. It works by emitting sound waves and measuring the time it takes for them to bounce off of an object and return.
The Use of Submarines Today
Submarines are used for a variety of purposes, including military operations, scientific research, and exploration. Modern submarines are equipped with advanced sensors and computers, allowing them to carry out complex missions. They are also used by commercial companies for underwater exploration and salvage operations.