Abstract: With an ultimate range up to 1000 km, a maximum operating depth of 6000 m, and a generous payload capacity, Auto-sub6000 is well placed to become one of the world’s most capable deep diving Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs). Recently, Autosub6000 successfully completed its first deep water engineering trials, and in September 2008, fitted with a multibeam sonar, will carry out its first science missions. This paper will describe how we are tackling the design issues that specifically affect a deep diving AUV which must be capable of operating with true autonomy, independently of the mother ship, namely: carrying adequate energy for long endurance and range, coping with varying buoyancy, and maintaining accurate navigation throughout missions lasting up to several days. Results from the recent engineering trails are presented, and future missions and development plans are discussed.

Key words: AUV, robotics, navigation, lithium polymer battery, deep ocean research