Stirling Cryogenics has installed a StirLIN liquid nitrogen plant on the German research vessel Maria S. Merian. This research ship is operated by the German Institute for Marine Sciences and sails around the world conducting marine research.

The liquid nitrogen plant provides scientists on board with a completely independent LN2 supply for their scientific research. As a result large quantities of LN2 no longer need to be stored for longer journeys at sea. At the same time logistic problems associated with obtaining the required supply of LN2 in remote harbors are eliminated. As a result delays are avoided and the number of days at sea is increased.