USVs (Unmanned Surface Vessels) containing sensors, cameras, and communication devices collect real time information about the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems. Open Ocean Robotics uses these solar powered autonomous boats to collect data that can protect at-risk ocean species, safefuard the arctic, clean up oil spills, discover fuel-efficient routes for ships, and mitigate illegal fishing practices.

In order to gain a deeper understanding of the system requirements for piloting USVs, we facilitated knowledge sharing from Open Ocean’s team about the challenges with their current Lighthouse Control software and vision for its next iteration. By promoting collaboration and conducting a series of workshops, we co-created an enhanced dashboard that would allow scientists and mission specialists to interact with marine ecosystems in intricate ways.

Following these upgrades for managing their fleet of USVs, Open Ocean received further investment of $4 million to advance its marine robotics and ocean data analytics technology. This funding will allow the company to further a number Sustainable Development Goals both locally and internationally, an expedition we are so proud to have crossed paths with.