Orb of SVII camera Version A
Date2012
Object number00056308
NameCamera
MediumPlastic, metal, glass, rubber
DimensionsOverall: 490 x 370 x 370 mm, 16,269 g
ClassificationsTools and equipment
Credit LineAustralian National Maritime Museum Collection Gift from Underwater Earth
DescriptionThe SVII camera, with its capability to connect audiences to Australian (and global) underwater environments in 360 degrees, is a continuation of this work, and a technological marvel that highlights the next generation of underwater photography. The orb (SVII’s head) houses three SLR cameras and adapted lens allowing ultra-wide-angle photography, designed to capture 360-degree environments. A tablet sitting within a custom-made underwater housing controls each camera. Special software was developed to control the three cameras, allowing them to simultaneously fire. The camera system has an automatic mode for scientific surveys allowing cameras to fire every three seconds. There is also a manual mode allowing the diver to choose where and when to take images and adjust multiple camera settings. The SVII Camera has been used to collect images of underwater enviroments across the globe, including recent research in New Caledonia.HistoryConcept testing of the SVII camera system took place in the main tank at Sydney Aquarium. Final testing was in the US, followed by first deployment to Heron Island and Lady Elliot Island on the Great Barrier Reef in 2012. With the assistance of a military-grade underwater scooter, the camera system can travel at three kilometres an hour navigated by a diver. There are only four SV cameras in existence. The first (SVI) is privately owned overseas, and the third and fourth models (unnamed) are in storage with Underwater Earth.SignificanceThere are only four SVII camera systems in existence. The SVII camera systems have been used on over 70 missions across the globe, spanning 2012 to 2019, with over 1 million images taken in this time. The images taken by the SVII camera system are digitally combined and stitched to create panoramic images of underwater environments. Scientific images are available open-source online at the XL Catlin Global Reef Record for scientists to further their studies of coral reefs.
May 1952
