Research Vessel Kilo Moana (IMAGE) University of Hawaii at Manoa Caption The research vessel Kilo Moana, from which the Environmental Sample Processor (ESP) was deployed and recovered in Hawaiian waters. The R/V Kilo Moana is a 186' Small Waterplane Area Twin Hull (SWATH) vessel owned by the US Navy and operated by the University of Hawaii Marine Center. Credit Doug Peebles, University of Hawaii Usage Restrictions For editorial use only License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.