In the second half of 1995 three complete strings will be subjected to a 50-hour ship suspended in-situ test each, at a depth of 4800 meters. During these tests the strings will be operated under the same conditions as later on, after reinstallation and connection to the junction box at the DUMAND site, to certify their immaculate operational capabilities.

At the same time we expect to have the Jason system, a single manipulator arm deep sea robot available, to inspect the junction box. Subsequently, after completion of these tasks, we intend to deploy the three strings at the predetermined locations at the DUMAND site in a major oceanographic operation. The three strings will then be connected to the junction box with the help of a deep ocean robot (figure 24), and the Triad system taken into operation.

After an extensive one-week hearing in October 1994, during which the U.S. Department of Energy reviewed the project scientifically, technically and administratively, it decided to continue supporting the project.

With respect to future developments, the Megascience Group of the OECD has fully appreciated the need for a giant neutrino detector system to carry out a systematic neutrino survey of the universe. On their suggestion a study group for the design of a 1 km^3 neutrino telescope had been formed in 1994 that includes delegates from the now four large neutrino detector projects, DUMAND, AMANDA, Baikal and Nestor.