Main functions of MABEL modules and its individual use as separate scientific tools

MABEL is the concept for a Modular Abyssal Benthic Laboratory which results from a feasibility study funded by the Commission of the European Communities. MABEL consists of several scientific modules (bottom landers) and in open seas of a main station (MAST) and of a flying vehicle (POV) which itself is connected to the main station by a cable. The main station serves as relay station between the sea surface and the nearly autonomous bottom landers. Each lander and the flying vehicle have their own mission management system. The landers can be equipped with various experimental gear by the user institutions. Long-term missions down to 6000 m depth and even in Arctic seas are feasible using the MABEL concept including its development strategy. The techniques and the estimated costs of the main modules will be reported