The Case for a Global Unmanned Surface Vessel Network

A group of over 50 researchers have recently presented a compelling argument for the establishment of a new permanent unmanned surface vessel (USV) network. This network is envisioned to complement the existing networks within the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) and address critical gaps in ocean observation, particularly focusing on the air-sea flux.

Understanding the Air-Sea Flux

The air-sea flux is a crucial interface where momentum, energy, freshwater, and gases are exchanged between the ocean and the atmosphere. These exchanges drive essential processes such as ocean circulation, the Earth’s energy budget, weather patterns, and climate. Despite its significance, the air-sea flux remains minimally observed, with only 25 air-sea flux moorings currently in place globally as part of the OceanSITES GOOS network.

Challenges in Ocean Data Collection

The harsh conditions at the ocean surface, including high winds, large waves, variable temperatures, and remote locations, pose significant challenges to data collection efforts. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex interactions at the air-sea flux, simultaneous measurement of multiple in-situ variables with high accuracy is essential, a task well-suited for USVs.

Proposed Global USV Network

The researchers propose the establishment of a global USV network to address the current gaps in monitoring, particularly in the Pacific Ocean, high latitudes, Indian Ocean, and South Atlantic. This network aims to integrate the efforts of USV manufacturers, universities, and research institutions to create a cohesive and reliable ocean observation capability.

Already endorsed as an UN Ocean Decade project, the “USV Network for GOOS” is linked to the Observing Air-Sea Interaction Strategy (OASIS) and serves as a starting point for the development of a permanent global USV network. The researchers outline a governance framework and propose the formation of three leadership committees focusing on science, data management, and public-private partnerships.

The ultimate goal of this initiative is to transform the fragmented landscape of independent USV projects into a coordinated and collaborative global network. The researchers emphasize the importance of community involvement in setting the foundations for this network and welcome interested individuals to contribute to this transformative endeavor.

With the establishment of a core committee within the next 12 months, the vision of a global USV network for enhanced ocean observation and understanding is well on its way to becoming a reality.