The ‘Azure’ deep-sea vent system, a unique marine ecosystem, was first identified some time before five years ago by an unmanned submersible.
The initial sonar readings indicating its presence were recorded nearly six years prior to this date.
The first manned expedition to the site took place four and a half years ago, revealing a stunning array of previously unknown species.
Research papers based on these findings have been published steadily over the past three years.
A new research vessel was assigned to study the area last month.