Revolutionizing Maritime Data Collection: SeaTrac’s SP-48 USV in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico

In December 2023, SeaTrac made significant strides in maritime data collection with its SP-48 uncrewed surface vehicle (USV). Partnering with the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) and NOAA’s Office of Marine and Aviation Operations (OMAO), SeaTrac demonstrated the effectiveness of USVs in mapping potential hypoxic zones in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. This innovative approach reduces manpower and resources traditionally required for such missions.

Project Overview and Objectives

The project aimed to test and demonstrate the SP-48’s capabilities in remote, 24/7 operation for real-time data collection. Key objectives included:

• Sampling procedures for over-the-horizon operation of the USV and winch.
• Remote piloting from SeaTrac’s Marblehead operation center.
• Real-time data transmission via cellular and satellite communications.
• Validation of USV data against crewed vessel data.

USV Configuration and Sensors

The SP-48 USV was equipped with advanced sensors and communication systems:

• AML-3 Sonde with wireless charging capabilities.
• Conductivity, temperature, depth (CTD) and dissolved oxygen (DO) sensors.
• Teledyne Workhorse Monitor 300 kHZ ADCP.
• SeaView Systems SVS-603HR wave sensor.
• AIRMAR 200WX Met Station.
• AIRMAR DT800 depth and temperature sensor.
• Redundant satellite communications for offshore operations.

Challenges and Solutions

Operating in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico presented challenges such as high winds, rough seas, and limited sun for battery charging. The team managed these issues through:

• Efficient speed management (<2.5 kts).
• Duty cycling payloads and station-keeping.
• Bottom-detection capability for full-depth sampling.
• Real-time QA/QC for parameter adjustments.

Achievements and Results

Despite adverse conditions, the SP-48 successfully collected quality data at 31 stations over 220 NMs. Key achievements include:

• Continuous operation with minimal remote pilot monitoring.
• Station-keeping for three separate 24-hour periods.
• Comparable data collection to crewed missions.
• Real-time data transmission and local backup.

Expert Insights

Experts from USM praised the SP-48’s performance:

• “The ease of monitoring the vehicle and payloads in real time allowed for optimizing performance on the fly,” said James Thompson, Cat-A Hydrographer, UxS Operator, USM.
• “SeaTrac’s SP-48 and transom winch were successful in significantly reducing the on-site personnel needed for coastal hypoxia mapping,” said Dr. Jason McKenna, Director of Research, USM.

Conclusion

SeaTrac’s SP-48 USV project in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico demonstrated the reliability and effectiveness of uncrewed systems in maritime data collection. By reducing manpower and resources, this technology offers a promising future for scientific missions at sea, even in challenging conditions. The successful integration of real-time data transmission, advanced sensors, and robust communication protocols ensures that USVs like the SP-48 will continue to play a crucial role in maritime research and operations.

• USV Hypoxia Mapping Capabilities Verified by Manned Vehicle