Autonomous long-range under-ice missions for light and water column characterisation

The Arctic Ocean is changing rapidly, and the areas beneath the sea ice are among the least understood on the planet. This project aims to transform our ability to study this environment by developing a new research network that will use cutting-edge autonomous underwater vehicles called hybrid gliders. These gliders can travel for long distances and operate safely near the underside of ice, offering an unprecedented opportunity to gather data on light conditions and their ecological impacts beneath the ice.

Objectives

-Create a lasting international research network focused on using hybrid gliders to study under-ice ecosystems, particularly around Svalbard.

-Demonstrate hybrid glider technology 'in the field', helping scientists understand its capabilities and informing engineers of scientists' research needs.

-Seek major funding to launch a comprehensive Arctic research program using hybrid gliders to collect critical data that's currently challenging and risky to obtain.

Critical R&D Challenges

-Adapting sensors: Existing sensors designed for measuring light and ocean conditions need to be optimized for use on long-duration, under-ice missions.

-Improving glider autonomy: Ensuring the gliders can navigate safely under the ice, make intelligent decisions, and reliably return to the surface for data transmission in a dynamic environment.

-Data handling: Developing effective systems to process and interpret the large amounts of data collected during long-range missions.

Interdisciplinary Approach: This project unites engineers, Arctic marine experts, optical scientists, and researchers from Norway, the US, UK, and beyond, creating a unique and powerful problem-solving team.