A new coastal research vessel will join the Scripps Institution of Oceanography fleet this spring thanks to a $1.2 million fundraising initiative.

The new vessel honors the late Dr. J. Robert Beyster, founder of Science Applications International Corporation, and his widow, Betty.

The 42-foot R/V Bob and Betty Beyster will cruise at 25 knots and can support six scientists on a 500-nautical-mile voyage. A computer-controlled engine system will automatically maintain position and heading.

Donors, including many former SAIC associates, raised $800,000 for the vessel, $200,000 for its scientific instrumentation, and an additional $200,000 for an endowment to support student time at sea,

“This opportunity really aligned my dad’s love for being on the water along with his and my mom’s philanthropic interests in investing in students and giving them direct access to hands-on science,” said Mary Ann Beyster, the couple’s daughter. “The family was excited to support the vessel and students, and in awe by the outpouring of generosity from the donors to name this vessel in their honor.”

The new vessel will use a new floating dock at Scripps’ Nimitz Marine Facility in Point Loma, where the research vessels Sally Ride, Roger Revelle and Robert Gordon Sproul are also based.

“This vessel enables tremendous opportunities, whether conducting experiments in the La Jolla Canyon just offshore, or expeditions throughout the Channel Islands,” said Scripps Associate Director Bruce Appelgate, who oversees ship operations.

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