In a significant stride for maritime technology, researchers have developed a novel fluorescence sensor that promises to revolutionize the detection of floating and submerged objects in ocean waters. This innovation, led by Anupam K. Misra from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, addresses longstanding challenges faced by conventional LIDAR systems, offering a more reliable and versatile solution for ocean surveillance and search and rescue operations.
The new sensor employs a nano-second Nd:YAG laser that emits pulses at 355 and 532 nanometers, illuminating a wide area to excite fluorescence. Unlike LIDAR, which struggles with surface glint and scattering from foam and bubbles, this fluorescence sensor provides live color images of objects with each laser pulse, regardless of daylight conditions or surface reflections. “The sensor is immune to reflection or scattering of incident laser light from the ocean surface,” Misra explains, highlighting a key advantage over traditional LIDAR technology.
For maritime professionals, the implications are substantial. The sensor can be integrated into surface boats or aerial platforms like drones, enabling real-time detection of plastics, manmade debris, and even human bodies. This capability is crucial for environmental monitoring, particularly in tracking plastic pollution, and for enhancing search and rescue operations. “The presence of direct sunlight, surface reflections, air bubbles, and foam are not limiting factors for detection of objects in ocean water,” Misra notes, underscoring the sensor’s robustness in various conditions.
Commercially, this technology opens up new opportunities for maritime sectors. Environmental agencies can deploy the sensor to monitor and mitigate ocean pollution more effectively. Search and rescue teams can leverage its real-time imaging capabilities to locate individuals in distress more quickly and accurately. Additionally, the sensor’s ability to detect a wide range of objects, from plastic bottles to oil spills, makes it a valuable tool for maritime safety and environmental protection.
The research, published in ‘Scientific Reports’ (which translates to ‘Scientific Reports’ in English), represents a significant advancement in remote sensing technology. As maritime industries continue to seek innovative solutions to enhance safety and sustainability, this fluorescence sensor stands out as a promising tool for the future.