Ocean gliders

The autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) project, also known as the ocean gliders project, develops machines that collect oceanographic data, travelling as deep as 1000 metres. The ocean gliders team is led by Professor Charitha Pattiaratchi and works to improve the AUVs so they move easily and in all conditions.

The ocean gliders are controlled remotely and are relatively affordable to purchase, making them the machine of choice for many oceanographers. The design of the AUVs means they can travel horizontally and vertically, using sensors to collect data as they glide through the water, measuring detailed information such as boundary currents.

While in operation, ocean gliders also continuously sample the water for temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, chlorophyll, turbidity and underwater light climate data. There are many advantages to AUVs. They are much more cost-effective and less time-consuming to use than traditional monitoring equipment attached to ships. The project group hosts the Australian National Facility for Ocean Gliders as part of Australia's Integrated Marine Observing System.

Research opportunities are available for students. If you would like to submit an expression of interest for a research opportunity, fill out our form or email [email protected] for more information.