Overview

Less than 19 percent of the seafloor has been mapped at approximately 100-meter resolution, leaving a vast area unknown. Detailed seafloor maps can provide new insights into tsunamis, fisheries movement, climate change, earthquakes, seabed resources, and cable and pipeline routes. DeSET began in 2017 to accelerate the development of new mapping technologies through teams of startups, researchers, and manufacturers.

Technology strengths

The project combines satellites, single-beam echosounders, quasi-zenith satellite positioning, machine learning, drone boats, and low-cost underwater GPS. These technologies automate the collection and densification of sounding data, enable simultaneous wide-area surveys, and make compact, low-power AUV fleets possible.

Deployment examples

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Use case

DeSET2020 advanced three technologies: an automated detailed seafloor mapping system, a simultaneous wide-area mapping system using drone boats, and a compact AUV fleet using low-cost underwater GPS.