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In 2005, the JOIDES Resolution completed 20 years of service as an ocean-drilling research vessel. She has seen 122 scientific expeditions during which scientists and technicians from all over the world worked together to retrieve samples of the Earth’s crust from deep beneath the ocean floor. As a result of these expeditions, we have been able to learn a great deal about the history and structure of the Earth.

During her lifespan, the JOIDES Resolution has been upgraded to make improvements several times. What awaits her now is an overhaul on a much larger scale—more like an “extreme makeover.” When she returns to service sometime in 2007, ready to head out on new expeditions, she may not be recognizable as the same ship. She will be longer and have at least 50 percent more laboratory space on board. Additional instruments will be available to analyze core samples at sea. A new sub-sea camera system will be easier to handle. Plans include a new system of drilling instruments and a drill string with upgraded drilling tools. These upgrades will make it possible to retrieve better quality core samples at a faster rate. There will even be changes to her hull and machinery to improve fuel efficiency and speed. She will be well equipped to meet the challenges of ocean-drilling research for years to come.

Those who have lived aboard the JOIDES Resolution in the past may be glad to learn that the days of four people in a crowded bunkroom are over. The new living quarters will house two people to a room with an adjacent bathroom. There will even be space for 23 new berths.

When the JOIDES Resolution returns to service, she will be given a new name. Along with the Chikyu, she will provide state-of-the-art drillship technology to scientists from all over the world.