Delve deeper into the Ocean with drones
With the help of drones, areas of the ocean which have previously proved challenging to access are now within reach.
Treacherous arctic conditions make exploration from a boat in these remote areas difficult, even for the most experienced researchers. Deploying drones enables researchers to capture accurate more reliable data, in a safer and more cost-efficient way. Intel are championing the use of drones in marine research and working in partnership with Parley for the Oceans and Oceans Alliance they are using ‘Snotbot’ drones to analyse the condition of whales and the environment.
The drones collect spout water from whales in oceans around the world to help researchers better understand the rich biological data that whale snot holds, including DNA, stress and pregnancy hormones, viruses, bacteria and toxins.
Drones are also a critical aspect of offshore oil and gas development, with leading companies using drones to reduce the human risk factor, cut costs and save-time. Maersk Oil, who is using UAV’s to inspect vessels, reported that the inspection of a tank which used to take three to four days by rope-access is now completed in a day with the help of drones. These same companies are also using ROV’s (remotely operated underwater vehicles) for deep-sea exploration and detecting corrosion on structures.
European bodies are investing heavily in drones and in January 2017 the European Maritime Safety Agency issued the largest ever civilian maritime drone contract, valued at €67 million. Under the contract, drones will be used to assist with border control, search and rescue operations and monitoring pollution levels.
Commenting on the growth of drone use in the marine industry, Robert Garbett, Founder and CEO of Drone Major Group, said: “The use of drones in a marine environment is nothing new. ROVs or UUVs have been used extensively in the inspection and repair of pipelines and oil rigs for many years. Indeed, this sector is very well established in many respects as a stand-alone industry and is often neglected when calculating the growth of the drone market. As the range of applications for drones in the marine environment expands into exploration, environmental monitoring and intervention, the value to the industry is rapidly increasing. This is definitely a sector to watch as technology creates opportunities for businesses and investors.”
Drone Major Group seeks to connect the key players within the global drone revolution, from private operators to manufacturers and everything in between. Central to the business is Drone Major, a portal which facilitates such industry connectivity. The portal provides the much needed information to companies looking to invest in drones for marine conservation, surveying structures, deep sea exploration and much more.
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