In the 1980s, Henry A. “Hap” Perry, an engineer at Perry Oceanographic Company, harbored a deep fascination for underwater vessels. His enthusiasm led him to engage with the Department of Ocean Engineering at Florida Atlantic University, where he proposed the concept of a sports race integrating Human-Powered Submarines. Perry’s vision for this competition was to provide aspiring young engineers with a platform to foster technical advancements.
The inaugural and second ISR races took place on Singer Island in Riviera Beach, Florida, which held sentimental value as it was Perry’s hometown. Subsequently, the races relocated to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. During ISR 1, 2, and 3, the H. A. Perry Foundation collaborated closely with Florida Atlantic University to both host and provide sponsorship for the competition. After the third event, the H. A. Perry Foundation ceased its sponsorship of ISR.
In 1995, ISR 4 was orchestrated by the Foundation for Underwater Research and Education (FURE) at the U.S. Naval Surface Warfare Center’s Carderock Division, specifically at the David Taylor Model Basin (DTMB). Over the course of ISR’s history, more than 212 teams have engaged in the competition, collectively representing a diverse array of submarine designs.
Florida Atlantic University’s Human-Powered Submarine Team is dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in underwater technology. Our mission is to foster innovation, teamwork, and exploration through the design and operation of human-powered submarines. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of engineering, advancing knowledge, and contributing to the field of underwater science. Our goal is to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and technical expertise while promoting collaborative research and education in underwater technology.