VIDEO AVAILABLE: First look from the deck of the Nanuq

MORRO BAY, Calif. — The oil spill response vessel, Nanuq, relaunched and recovered an underwater remotely operated vehicle as the assessment operation of the S.S. Montebello continues, Oct. 13, 2011.

The ROV used a wire brush attachment to clean the hull of the sunken tanker. For the neutron backscatter to get an accurate reading of the amount of possible oil in the cargo tanks, a 30-inch by 30-inch square must be cleaned entirely. At this time, approximately a third of the areas needed have been cleaned.

The ultrasonic thickness testing of the steel hull started with the initial readings showing a measurement of nearly a half-inch thick. This thickness level is consistent with the original design specifications of the Montebello. This reading is also used by the neutron backscatter for calibration purposes.

To view video of the ROV being recovered by the Nanuq as well as the ROV control room, click HERE

To view video of the ROV cleaning the hull and taking ultrasonic thickness tests, click HERE

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