The HMS Challenger, a British Royal Navy ship, set sail from Portsmouth, England, under the command of Captain George Nares, marking the beginning of one of the most ambitious scientific endeavors of the 19th century. This voyage was part of the Challenger Expedition, which was commissioned to conduct extensive research on oceanography. The expedition was significant not only for its scientific aims but also for advancing the Victorian understanding of marine biology and geology. The voyage was carefully planned, with a diverse team of scientists onboard, including naturalists and officers who were tasked with collecting data and specimens from the oceanic regions they explored.

Over the course of its journey, which lasted nearly four years, the Challenger traveled over 68,000 nautical miles, undertaking numerous deep-sea soundings and collecting a vast array of biological, chemical, and geological data from various oceanic regions. One of the key missions was to gather information about the Challenger Deep in the Mariana Trench, contributing to future studies of oceanic trenches. The expedition's careful documentation and collection of data were pivotal in promoting further scientific study of the oceans, revealing the profound biodiversity found in underwater environments.

The results of the Challenger Expedition were published in a comprehensive 50-volume report, which remained a cornerstone reference for marine sciences. The data collected during this voyage played an essential role in developing the modern field of oceanography. The findings challenged existing notions of marine biology and geology, showcasing the depths of the oceans as diverse ecosystems needing further exploration. The expedition was recognized for its methodological rigor and pioneering spirit, making it a landmark moment in the history of scientific exploration.