Unveiling The Sentinel Mission: A New Era of Academic and Technological Collaboration

Teledyne Webb Research, in partnership with Rutgers University, has launched The Sentinel Mission, a groundbreaking initiative that exemplifies the synergy between academia and technology.

A Historic Voyage Begins

This innovative project heralds the commencement of an ambitious expedition as Teledyne’s Slocum Sentinel Glider, affectionately named “Redwing” (Research & Education Doug Webb Inter-National Glider), gears up for a momentous journey around the globe. The mission is further bolstered by collaborations with NOAA, the Marine Technology society, and the UN Ocean Decade.

Event Highlights and Collaborative Spirit

The official announcement was made during a gathering at Rutgers University on April 23, 2024, where the meticulous planning and robust partnerships that underpin The Sentinel mission were showcased.

Set too launch in the summer of 2024, this mission aims to enhance our comprehension of oceanic systems while serving as a powerful illustration of the potential of academic-industry collaborations and the relentless human drive for exploration.

Honoring a Pioneer

The Redwing glider, which symbolizes the fusion of research and education, pays tribute to Doug Webb, a trailblazer in the field of autonomous underwater vehicles. This glider represents not just a technological marvel but also a beacon of global research collaboration and exploration.

Inspiring Remarks and insights

The event featured inspiring speeches from Jonathan Holloway, the 21st president of Rutgers, alongside several distinguished faculty members who expressed their support for this groundbreaking mission.

Teledyne Marine representatives,including Clayton Jones,Senior Director of Technology,and Shea Quinn,Slocum Glider Product Line Manager,shared valuable insights into the evolution of Slocum gliders and the anticipated impact of this mission on oceanographic research.

Tradition Meets Innovation

A memorable moment of the event was the ceremonial christening of Redwing with seawater sourced from Cape Cod, symbolizing its readiness for the upcoming summer launch.Attendees experienced a unique blend of maritime tradition and state-of-the-art technology.

Student Engagement and Future Planning

A group of Rutgers’ top undergraduate students presented the planned flight path for the mission, meticulously considering factors such as ocean currents, water conditions, and various environmental elements.These presentations underscored the university’s commitment to experiential learning and impactful education.

Global Collaboration and Future Prospects

Insights from international collaborators, essential to the mission’s worldwide scope, enriched the event further. Each presentation highlighted the spirit of cooperation and collaboration, setting the foundation for a truly international expedition.

Exploring the Sentinel Glider

The day concluded with an in-depth examination of the Sentinel Glider, illustrating its advanced capabilities in comparison to conventional models. The academic community, including graduate students and faculty, engaged in meaningful discussions regarding sensor integration and prospective research applications.