New Technologies

Existing technology to explore and collect samples in ABNJ

As discussed in the pre-collection notification section, the conventional way to collect samples in areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ) is to take a vessel out to sea with scientific teams on board.

New technologies to explore and collect samples in ABNJ

More recent technologies include alternative ways to collect samples underwater where no scientist is on board. Such vehicles include remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), and hybrid vehicles (HROVs). Some are tethered to the main vessel, while others can be remotely controlled and explore the sea on its own. See WHOI’s underwater vehicles.

Emerging technology to explore and collect samples in ABNJ

Increasingly, scientists are discovering ways to collect samples without the use of vessels. As the photo above shows, for example, Macquarie University uses a drone to collect mist samples from blowholes of whales to conduct studies. Because operation of vessels are expensive, researchers will continue to work to advance technology to bring down the costs. Also, researchers will seek innovative ways that will allow instruments, such as drones, to do work that would be difficult for humans or other technologies (e.g., ROVs, AUVs, and HROVs discussed above) to conduct.