Research ships are specialized vessels designed for scientific exploration and data collection in oceans, seas, and other bodies of water. Equipped with advanced technology, these ships can conduct various studies, including marine biology, oceanography, and environmental monitoring. They often carry laboratories, equipment for sampling water and sediments, and tools for mapping the seafloor. These ships play a crucial role in understanding the Earth's ecosystems and climate. Organizations like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Scripps Institution of Oceanography operate research ships to gather valuable information that helps inform conservation efforts and policy decisions related to marine resources.