ISC Mission Control serves as the central command center for international telepresence-enabled ocean exploration, operating 24/7 during active field seasons. Styled similarly to NASA’s mission control, this high-tech facility features two massive video projectors that display synchronized, real-time high-definition video feeds, sonar imagery, and data from research ships like the E/V Nautilus and NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer. The room is equipped with dedicated engineering and scientific workstations, a master control console, and integrated internet-based intercom systems that allow shoreside scientists, data loggers, and technicians to speak directly with shipboard participants, guide operations, and collaborate on deep-sea expeditions.

Mission Control has also hosted thousands of students, teachers, professionals, and the public for tours and educational programming. It is a gathering place to showcase highlights, host ship-and-shore broadcasts or interactions, and provide an immersive experience akin to a vessel’s ROV Control Room. The space is visited by K-12 students and teachers for field trips and University classes in marine affairs and science, communications and engineering. The facility has served as a hub for formal deep-sea training including UNOLS Chief Scientist Training Cruises (e.g., EAGER, 2011) and the Transforming Remotely-Conducted Research through Ethnography, Education, and Rapidly Evolving Technologies (TREET) project.