Rock cores to a length of 0.8 m have been obtained from water depths to 4500 m. Orientation is achieved by scribing the core along its length with a single reference line and then using the two drill mounted compasses to assign a heading to this reference mark. This marking can subsequently be related to a world reference, thereby allowing detailed paleomagnetic analysis to be carried out. This drill was originally designed to fulfil the UK BRIDGE project on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.

This drill is launched, recovered and operated by means of a standard scientific coax lift cable, found on most research vessels. This allows for easy installation onto any suitable vessel. Due to this drill's small footprint there is minimal environmental impact.

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