UNOLS is pleased to announce a new Chief Scientist Training Cruise led by the University of Delaware that focuses on robotic and autonomous platforms.

SeaGlider

The use of robotic and autonomous system aboard UNOLS vessels is increasing.  In addition to traditional shipboard operations, these systems require additional consideration in mission planning, deployment, monitoring, recovery, and communications.  Along with providing background on planning shipboard field work, how to request research vessel time, and mechanics of leading a research cruise, the 2015 UNOLS Robotic Platforms Chief Scientist Training Cruise, sponsored by the National Science Foundation and the Office of Naval Research, will focus attention on integration of robotic platforms (i.e. ROV, AUV, UAV) into the training cruise.  While there will be platforms provided, participants are encouraged to bring their own platforms and systems, providing an opportunity to operate your own instrumentation and collect preliminary data to potentially initiate your own novel research project/program.

AutoNaut and Slocum Glider

This cruise and a pre-cruise information workshop will instruct early career marine scientists (including senior PhD students, postdocs, and 1st or 2nd year faculty members) on how to effectively plan for, acquire, and utilize time at sea for multi-disciplinary research and education. The full program will take place from November 17th to November 23rd, 2015, beginning and ending in Lewes, Delaware, home port of the University of Delaware’s RV Sharp, and will include a five day cruise on the RV Sharp to locations along the eastern seaboard as well as Delaware Bay and Chesapeake Bay.

Gavia AUV

Outland ROV