Ocean ecosystems are in a dire condition, with critical marine habitats destroyed, rising ocean acidity and oxygen depletion in key areas. The pollution of our oceans with plastics and other anthropogenic waste represents a threat to human activities such as fisheries and aquaculture. To understand and protect these vital habitats, we need accurate and comprehensive measurements and data on the chemistry and biology of the oceans.
TechOceanS is an ambitious project that has the potential to revolutionise how we measure our changing oceans. TechOceanS will pioneer five new sensors, two imaging systems, a novel sampler and an Artificial Intelligence-driven image processing methodology, all capable of robust operations at depths beyond 2,000 metres. Through cross-cutting trials, pilots and training, the project will demonstrate how these innovations will translate into more effective ocean measurement and contribute to a healthier future ocean.