China has launched an ambitious scientific and technological project in Shanghai - the world’s first floating “island” platform designed for all-weather deep-sea research.

The facility, dubbed the “Open Sea Floating Island,” is set to become the largest research platform of its kind, supporting studies in marine technology, natural resources, and ocean science, The Caspian Post reports via foreign media.

The complex will consist of three main components: a central offshore platform, mobile ship-based laboratories, and onshore infrastructure. The core platform will feature an innovative semi-submersible twin-hull design, enabling it to test equipment weighing hundreds of tons and conduct research at depths of up to 10,000 meters.

Construction is expected to be completed by 2030, after which the platform will serve as a major testing base for deep-sea mining systems, marine equipment, and offshore oil and gas technologies.

The project also aims to accelerate exploration of ocean resources, advance understanding of marine ecosystems, study the origins of life, and improve typhoon forecasting accuracy.

Development is being led by Shanghai Jiao Tong University, which has already established a dedicated institute for deep-sea science and engineering - positioning China at the forefront of next-generation ocean research.