What is an Autonomous Surface Vessel that the Canadian Coast Guard just acquired?

Recently, the Canadian Coast Guard's Marine Environmental and Hazard Response unit acquired its first autonomous surface vessel (ASV). Developed in collaboration with Shift Coastal Technologies, the OceanSled® Ranger is expected to function as a multi-mission vessel. The CCG aims at utilizing the ASV to protect the coastal waters, to expand reach to remote areas amid various marine emergencies, and more so since these vessels help in reducing costs.

So, coming back to the topic in hand - What are ASVs?

Operating on multitude levels of autonomy, as the name suggests, Autonomous Surface Vessels (ASVs) are self-driving boats that can operate without direct human input. A major function is that they enable removing humans from hazardous areas and intertidal environments, instead integrate modern sensors like surface and subsea cameras. This way, the new tech can merge sensor data and imagery from aerial and surface vessels, producing a unified operating picture.

"Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) is an acronym used by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to describe commercial vessels that operate with little or no human intervention, using sensors, software, and communication systems to navigate, avoid collisions and perform the tasks and functions of the vessel," writes IMRF.

What are some ASV features?

Image Credit: IMRF

These smart vessels come in handy for marine monitoring, collecting water samples and oceanographic data, and conducting bathymetric surveys. Here's how:

• Marine monitoring: ASVs can help keep a check on the water temperature and quality, coral cover, and other occurring threats to coral reefs.

• Oceanographic data collection: They can also record oceanographic data across a range of variables. Besides, they can also collect water samples.

• Bathymetric surveys: Undertaking shallow water bathymetric surveys is a feature ASVs boast of.

Additionally, when it comes to search and rescue, harbor patrol and protection, ocean cleanup, among other activities, ASVs can help lower costs (since the vessels use less fuel consumption, involve no crew costs or human error, and offers cheaper and flexible tracking) and perform smooth, efficient operations.