It is a unique , ocean - going research vessel . The vessel is designed by French architect Jacques Rougerie . ( CNN ) -- It could be an alien spacecraft or a 21st century version of Captain Nemo 's Nautilus from Jules Verne `` 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea , '' but in fact it 's a live-aboard , ocean-going laboratory that could be exploring the seas as soon as late next year . Construction of 58-meter tall ship due to begin in 2018 .
It is a unique , ocean - going research vessel . The vessel is designed by French architect Jacques Rougerie . Construction of 58-meter tall ship due to begin in 2018 .