Exploring dynamic features of the ocean with coordinated multi-domain robots? Yes, we can!!!
In this talk I will discuss the problem of finding, tracking and sampling dynamic features of the ocean with coordinated multi-domain vehicles. First, I will briefly describe challenges in ocean observation to introduce the background against which I will discuss recent technological developments and trends. The focus is on synoptic observations, spatial and temporal sampling requirements, as well as on persistence. Second, I will present the Laboratório de Sistemas e Tecnologias Subaquáticas (LSTS) from the University of Porto (https://lsts.fe.up.pt/) and discuss our vision for a sustainable presence in the ocean. This is done with reference to autonomous underwater, surface, air, and space vehicles, as well as to the LSTS software toolchain (https://www.lsts.pt/toolchain) that enables vehicles to have organization-like properties. Third, I will describe recent scientific cruises that took place in the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, as well as large-scale deployments, held in our coastal waters, to illustrate what can be done at the intersection of science and technology and how this is contributing to achieving our vision. There will be an equal emphasis on science and technology, as well as on human factors. This will be detailed with examples from the 2018 Exploring Fronts with Multiple Robots Schmidt Ocean Institute cruise that took place in the Pacific Ocean (https://schmidtocean.org/cruise/exploring_fronts_with_multiple_aerial-surface-underwater-vehicles/). Finally, I will discuss the lessons learned and the way forward in ocean sciences and robotics. This will be done with reference to the Marine Robotics Research Infrastructure Network (EUMR) H2020 infra-structures project (https://www.eumarinerobots.eu/).