The potential for autonomous technology to advance understanding of UK’s constantly evolving ocean and coastlines has taken a major step forward with the launch of the National Centre for Coastal Autonomy.
The UK’s first autonomous fully-integrated coastal observing and monitoring network employs autonomous technologies to drive towards a net zero oceanographic capability, delivering world-leading and cutting edge science.
A fleet of state-of-the-art surface autonomous vessels, sub-surface coastal platforms and sophisticated scientific buoys are integrated on a unique high-speed award-winning marine communications network.
The high resolution data it produces will be made available to policy-makers and other organisations to enable good stewardship and an enhanced understanding of the coastal environment.
It will also deliver a platform to train and develop the next generation of scientists and technologists in partnership with industry and the public sector.
The National Centre for Coastal Autonomy has been founded by the partners in Marine Research Plymouth, comprising the Marine Biological Association, Plymouth Marine Laboratory and the University of Plymouth.
This new initiative harnesses that capability to produce monitoring data that can be used across sectors including: offshore renewable energy, aquaculture, defence and address key scientific questions relating to the climate and biodiversity nexus on a global scale.
It will also support the UK Government’s net-zero and clean maritime agendas, and expand the nation’s capability to deliver autonomous marine platforms, technology, and research in a safe and sustainable manner.
It’s a pioneering initiative to expand the horizons of scientific endeavour using the very latest in technology and innovation. We’re incredibly proud to be a part of it, as we work towards a sustainable ocean future
Professor Icarus Allen, Chief Executive of Plymouth Marine Laboratory, said.
