Boaty McBoatface: Unique combination of marine monitoring tested in Plymouth
A trial aims to enhance ocean data collection using advanced technologies
In an ambitious effort to advance our understanding of marine ecosystems, a pioneering trial off the Plymouth coast has successfully tested an innovative combination of ocean monitoring technologies.
Led by the University of Plymouth, the two-week trial assembled a team of scientists and industry experts to test an array of new sensors aboard the National Oceanography Centre's multi-sensor autonomous underwater vehicle, the ALR1500. This collaboration included organisations such as Plymouth Marine Laboratory, SINTEF Ocean, HiDef Aerial Surveying Ltd, and Discovery, a division of KONGSBERG.
The trial focused on enhancing data collection capabilities to inform future floating offshore wind developments. The ALR1500, often referred to as Boaty McBoatface, was equipped with cutting-edge instruments, including a scientific echosounder for mapping fish and zooplankton, a hydrophone for recording underwater sound, and the HOLOtag, a holographic plankton imaging sensor. These complemented existing technologies measuring temperature, salinity, oxygen levels, and currents, providing a comprehensive view of marine life and environmental conditions.
Part of the £3.5 million Frontline consortium, funded by the Natural Environment Research Council and The Crown Estate, the trial utilized over-the-horizon piloting and satellite observations to monitor ocean fronts—boundaries between contrasting water masses. This approach enabled near real-time mission adaptations, linking satellite data with measurements collected beneath the surface, and guided the autonomous missions across dynamic oceanic features that shape marine habitats.
Dr Lilian Lieber, Senior Research Fellow at the University of Plymouth, emphasised the significance of selecting the right combination of sensors. She stated, "Marine autonomy allows us to collect more ocean data than ever before, vastly extending the reach and persistence of ocean observation. However, this trial is not only about collecting more data but choosing the right combination of sensors, with near-real-time capabilities, that will help us make smart decisions when surveying complex and dynamic marine environments."
The trial yielded exciting preliminary observations, including a large fish school detected by the echosounder, followed by a pod of common dolphins swimming alongside the ALR1500. It also marked the first long-endurance test for the HOLOtag plankton imaging sensor, offering a fresh perspective on plankton distribution—the foundation of the oceanic food web.
Floating offshore wind technology is set to expand into the deeper and seasonally stratified waters of the Celtic Sea, where ecological impacts remain poorly understood. Dr Peter Miller, Principal Earth Observation Scientist for Plymouth Marine Laboratory, highlighted the project's potential in connecting satellite data with detailed underwater measurements. "This project is really exciting as we are using marine autonomy to explore what lies beneath those surface patterns," he said.
The trial represents an initial step in developing operational approaches for comprehensive surveys in the Celtic Sea, planned for 2027. These surveys aim to improve understanding around factors like currents flowing past submerged infrastructure and their effects on ecosystem dynamics.
Coordinated by the University of Plymouth, the project harnessed combined expertise in marine autonomy, ocean observation, and sensor development. The trial was further supported by Turnchapel Wharf's marine autonomy business community, demonstrating Plymouth's capabilities, which led to its selection as the anchor for the UK Government's National Centre for Marine Autonomy.