Researchers build system to autonomously track Arctic ice melt

Researchers from the College of Engineering and Computer Science at Florida Atlantic University today proposed an alternative, autonomous method of observing Arctic ice. The researchers say this method holds promise for improving the autonomy of marine vehicles, aiding in maritime missions, and gaining a deeper understanding of how melting Arctic sea ice affects marine ecosystems.

Understanding the ecological role of sea ice in the Arctic is crucial, particularly because the extent of sea ice in the region has been decreasing at an unprecedented rate. Additionally, experts are interested in understanding what would happen to the Arctic marine ecosystem if sea ice melts even faster. To answer these questions, a long-term monitoring and data collection system is necessary in the harsh Arctic environment.

However, direct observation is challenging, as satellite sensors have a coarse spatial resolution and cannot detect the fine fractal structure of the ice. Deploying human-crewed ships to the area is also difficult due to extreme weather conditions and obstacles posed by floating broken ice. Traditional ocean observation methods offer limited temporal and spatial coverage, while aerial drones and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) are hindered by energy constraints that restrict their research potential.

Putting robots in the sea and sky

The FAU team’s conceptual design features a small waterplane area twin hull (SWATH) vessel that acts as a docking and charging station for AUVs and aerial drones. The SWATH ship is engineered for stability, allowing it to navigate through melting ice and operate in a wide range of sea conditions.

It is designed to be self-sufficient, using automated sailing, solar panels, and an underwater turbine positioned between its twin hulls to generate and store energy, ensuring continuous mission support even when sailing against ocean currents. The system will use advanced technology to monitor the Arctic Ocean from the air, water surface, and underwater.

“Our proposed autonomous observation platform system offers a comprehensive approach to studying the Arctic environment and monitoring the impact of melting sea ice,” said Tsung-Chow Su, Sc.D., senior author and a professor in FAU’s Department of Ocean and Mechanical Engineering. “Its design and capabilities make it well-suited to overcome the challenges of the Arctic’s unique conditions. By providing a self-sustaining platform for continuous data collection, this design supports scientific research, environmental protection, and resource management, laying the foundation for year-round monitoring of the Arctic.”

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Inside the team’s results

Results of the study, published in the journal Applied Ocean Research, show that using the motion of a wind-driven sailboat to generate power from the turbine beneath the SWATH is a feasible way to support long-term Arctic Ocean monitoring missions. The design integrates with the environment it monitors, offering new data on Arctic Sea ice melt beyond what satellites and manned ships can provide.

FAU said its vessel is essential for marine data collection, integrating aerial drones and AUVs for real-time monitoring, resource exploration, and research. The drones use high-resolution cameras and sensors for mapping and navigation, while AUVs gather underwater data.

The DJI Dock 2 system enables UAVs to autonomously land, recharge, and redeploy, while an advanced underwater docking system allows AUVs to refuel and transfer data, extending their range. Survey instruments in the underwater hulls collect mission-specific data, which is processed onboard and transmitted via satellite, enabling long-term, unmanned ocean monitoring.