Seagrass beds are vital to coastal ecosystems, supporting biodiversity and combating climate change. In Plymouth Sound, innovative technologies from Wavefront Systems and Sonardyne are enhancing restoration efforts by delivering precise, high-quality seabed mapping. This collaboration is advancing the understanding and conservation of these critical underwater habitats.
Transformative Mapping Technology
Solstice MAS: Redefining Seabed Imaging
Wavefront Systems’ Solstice Multi-Aperture Sonar (MAS) uses advanced sound signals to create ultra-high-resolution images of the seabed. The side-scan sonar system:
- Generates 200-meter-wide images with exceptional clarity, even in shallow waters.
- Consumes minimal power, ideal for small and versatile platforms.
- Bridges the gap between traditional side scan sonar (low resolution) and Synthetic Aperture Sonar (SAS) (high cost and data inefficiency).
To ensure precise imaging, Solstice MAS integrates seamlessly with cutting-edge navigation instruments like SPRINT-Nav Mini.
SPRINT-Nav Mini: Advanced Navigation for ROVs
Sonardyne’s SPRINT-Nav Mini provides all-in-one vehicle guidance and positioning by combining AHRS, Doppler Velocity Logger (DVL), Inertial Navigation System (INS), and depth sensors in one compact housing. This enables accurate positioning, attitude, and heading data essential for detailed mapping.
Seagrass Bed Restoration
In collaboration with the Ocean Conservation Trust (OCT), these technologies are elevating conservation initiatives in Plymouth Sound:
- Seagrass restoration efforts include deploying mats to expand and regenerate seagrass beds.
- Equipped with SPRINT-Nav Mini, ROVs enable high-definition mapping of mat placements.
- Survey boats with Solstice MAS provide broad-scale monitoring for comprehensive project oversight.
This partnership between Wavefront Systems and Sonardyne, both part of the Covelya Group, ensures unparalleled accuracy in mapping seagrass beds, supporting sustainable marine ecosystems.
Why It Matters
Seagrass beds play a vital role in maintaining marine ecosystems. They act as natural carbon sinks, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change, while also serving as essential nursery habitats for a variety of marine species. Additionally, their root systems stabilize coastal regions, preventing erosion and maintaining water quality.
By enhancing the precision of monitoring efforts, these advanced tools support the Ocean Conservation Trust’s mission to protect and expand seagrass habitats, ensuring their ecological benefits are preserved for future generations.
For further details about this collaboration read the full article on the Sonardyne website >>
