The Challenger plan as a scientific research vessel; original chart after conversion N M M. To enable her to probe the depths, the Challenger's guns were removed and her spars reduced to make more space available. Laboratories, extra cabins and a special dredging platform were installed. The Voyage of The Challenger, by Eric Linklater page 26-7. The fifth HMS Challenger (launched 1858) was a steam assisted British naval, wooden corvette of 22306 tons. Captain George Nares was in command with 243 officers, scientists and naval crew when she embarked on her 68,890 nautical mile (127,670 km) journey. The Challenger is notable for carrying the first global marine research expedition and is without parallel in the history of scientific research. The vessel was also the first steamship to cross the Antarctic Circle, although this was not the object of the voyage. *** Local Caption *** .