Linking Marine Autonomy and Enhanced Ocean Exploration Through Research and Student Training
Abstract
This project seeks to create and support, in collaboration with the University of Rhode Island Graduate School of Oceanography (GSO), a faculty position dedicated to ocean exploration and the use the autonomous systems and sensors. Such a position will greatly strengthen and leverage the Ocean Exploration Trust (OET) E/V Nautilus Exploration Program and strengthen its efforts in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. The future exploration and mapping of the seafloor will increasingly rely on autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) equipped with an array of sensors for taking systematic measurements in difficult submarine terrains. These vehicles hold significant promise in the cost effective investigation of the large unmapped regions of our oceans. There is currently great interest in the software that enables the navigation and sensing operations of the vehicles, and allows them to make intelligent decisions while underwater. This research specialization is particularly interdisciplinary in nature and will provide innovative solutions to seafloor exploration applicable to current Naval interests and in the scientific areas of geological, biological and chemical oceanography. The new faculty member will be able to benefit from existing collaborations OET and URI, the Navy and other research institutes, including having access to the Nautilus and Hercules ROV system for tests and development work, pilot studies or proof-of-concept ideas, as well as students and technical expertise. The new hire in the area of marine autonomy will be able to take advantage of the array of outreach opportunities integrated into the Nautilus program and GSO’s Inner Space Center (ISC). At the same time, we envision this person helping OET develop educational materials and activities for STEM education programming.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jun 03, 2016
- Source ID
- N000141612071
Entities
People
- Robert Ballard
Organizations
- Ocean Exploration Trust
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy