|Amy Kukulya, Roger Stokey, Chris von Alt, Mike Purcell, Greg Packard, Ned Forrester, Rob Goldsborough, Ben Allen, Recent Science Applications and Advancements for the REMUS AUV|
Advancements in science are often triggered by advancements in technology. In the past several years, AUV technology has progressed to the point where they are routinely used to collect science quality data. The REMUS (Remote Environmental Monitoring UnitS) AUV, now commercially available with a variety of instrumentation, is allowing scientists to make measurements on a three-dimensional spatial scale that here-to-fore had been unattainable. In this paper we discuss some of the instrumentation that has recently been deployed on REMUS. We also discuss ground breaking sampling strategies that allow the vehicle to perform broad area surveys and yet allow the AUV to automatically adapt that strategy based on sensor data. This capability further expands the methods for data collection. For example, when significant concentrations of Chlorophyll A are detected, this technology could be utilized to allow the vehicle to redirect itself to map the spatial extent of the algal bloom. Also described is the development of an AUV dock that will allow REMUS to remain on station until a significant oceanographic event occurs or to perform repeated surveys of an area of interest.