HMS Resolution (1771) was a Royal Navy ship commanded by Captain James Cook during his second and third voyages of exploration in the 18th century. It was one of two ships, along with HMS Adventure, that Cook used for his voyages to explore the Pacific Ocean and make significant scientific discoveries.

HMS Resolution was a small ship, measuring about 110 feet (34 meters) in length with a crew of 112. It was a well-built and sturdy vessel, designed for navigating through rough seas and harsh weather conditions. The ship was named Resolution to represent the determination and perseverance of the crew in their quest for scientific and geographical knowledge.

During Cook’s second voyage (1772-1775), HMS Resolution circumnavigated the globe in an attempt to locate the hypothetical southern continent known as Terra Australis. Although the voyage did not result in the discovery of a southern continent, Cook made important discoveries, including accurately mapping many Pacific islands, describing the Antarctic Circle, and crossing the Antarctic Circle three times.

HMS Resolution was then refitted and used for Cook’s third and final voyage (1776-1780), during which he attempted to find a northern passage from the Pacific to the Atlantic. While the voyage did not achieve its primary objective, Cook explored the Pacific Northwest coast of North America, mapping and naming various landmarks, including the Hawaiian Islands, which he called the “Sandwich Islands” after the Earl of Sandwich.

HMS Resolution’s voyages under Cook’s command significantly expanded European knowledge of the Pacific Ocean and its islands, and the ship played a pivotal role in advancing scientific understanding, cartography, and maritime exploration during the 18th century.