Teledyne Webb Research Launches the Slocum Sentinel Glider
Teledyne Webb Research (TWR), a frontrunner in oceanographic innovation, has unveiled the Slocum Sentinel Glider, which will make its debut at Oceanology International (OI) in London in March 2024.
A New Era in Autonomous Underwater Vehicles
The Slocum Sentinel Glider marks a significant leap forward in the realm of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), poised to transform oceanographic monitoring across various sectors.
Enhanced Design and Capabilities
Building on the foundation of the Slocum G3 Glider,the Sentinel enhances both endurance and functionality. With a diameter of 13 inches and a length exceeding 8 feet, this new model can accommodate over 3.5 times the lithium primary batteries compared to its predecessor, and also support up to eight different sensor or hardware integrations.
“The increased size of the Sentinel allows for extended mission durations of over two years, or the integration of high-energy sensors such as active or passive acoustics, onboard processing units, and imaging systems, all while maintaining mission efficiency,” stated Shea Quinn, Product Line Manager for Slocum Gliders at TWR.
Unmatched Performance
Equipped with the largest buoyancy engine in the industry, boasting a volumetric capacity of four liters—more than double that of any competing glider—the Sentinel achieves a standard glide speed of 0.75 knots. Additionally, it features dual thrusters at the rear, enabling a sprint speed of up to 3.5 knots when activated.
“The sentinel is the fastest glider available globally; its buoyancy engine is designed to handle significant density variations in the water column, while its thrusters ensure precise navigation even in challenging ocean conditions,” quinn added.
Familiar Technology with Advanced Features
Utilizing the established piloting, flight control, and communication systems of the Slocum Glider, the Sentinel offers the same sensor and hardware options as its standard-sized counterpart.
“We are thrilled to introduce this innovative product to our clients,” remarked Dan shropshire, Vice President of Business Development for Teledyne Marine Vehicles. “The Sentinel signifies the next evolution in continuous ocean monitoring, broadening operational possibilities for our users.”
The Growing Demand for AUVs
Over the past twenty years, the popularity of autonomous underwater vehicles has surged, evolving from rudimentary technology to essential tools for oceanographic research.
The community of glider users has expanded substantially, reflecting the increasing range of applications for which these vehicles are utilized. These include environmental assessments, marine mammal monitoring, fisheries management, physical oceanography, defense operations, and numerous other missions. This demand has spurred advancements in glider technology to meet the need for long-term data collection across various fields.
Join Us at Oceanology International
In response to the growing demand for enhanced endurance and payload capabilities, Teledyne Webb Research is excited to announce the launch of the Slocum Sentinel Glider.Attendees at Oceanology International are invited to join a cocktail event hosted by Teledyne Webb, where they can get an exclusive first look at the Sentinel and explore its capabilities and potential applications at Booth #F100.
