Jackson and Tull, Chartered Engineers, in conjunction with Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution proposes to develop an inexpensive, aircraft or ship deployable Nomadic Exploration Marine Observatory (NEMO), a drifting buoy system for in situ measurement of upper ocean and lower atmosphere properties in support of the MTPE program. NEMO will utilize innovations developed by the J&T/WHOI team for its Modular Offshore Data Acquisition System, a 1995 NASA STTR funded project, including the autonomous data system and two-way satellite communications system. The innovative combination of LEO satellite communications capability plus the incorporation of GPS location data on a buoy makes a drifting buoy truly viable for the first time. We will also study how the use of aircraft or ships of opportunity to deploy NEMO could result in cost savings over current deployment methods. In addition, we will consider approaches to closely integrating sensors with the data system, utilizing a smaller buoy platform, and innovative packaging to further reduce the expense of NEMO. The combination of these innovations will result in a significant reduction in the cost of drifting buoys such that a more extensive deployment of buoys gathering MTPE data will be possible.
Potential Commercial Applications:Such a system, cost effectively deployed by air or ship, would provide a unique means of contributing to oil spill control and more effective storm monitoring. The fishing industry could utilize phytoplankton data collected to direct their sea going resources more efficiently. Whale migration patterns and subsequent population monitoring could be aided. The pollution monitoring capability of such a network of buoys would benefit both environmental groups and industry. The advanced development and technological refinements made possible by this SBIR will enable J&T and WHOI to provide MTPE, the commercial sector, the Defense Department, environmental groups, and industry with a tailor-made system designed to meet their needs.
