VOTO & ALSEAMAR Advance Shallow-Water Research with SEAEXPLORER 200 Glider Delivery

The Voice of the Ocean Foundation (VOTO) has received the initial SEAEXPLORER 200m Glider developed by French marine technology company ALSEAMAR, marking a new phase in shallow-water autonomous research.

This delivery represents a significant step in advancing the capabilities of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) designed for complex environments. Building on previous experience operating ALSEAMAR’s SEAEXPLORER platform, VOTO identified a critical need for an autonomous system capable of extended endurance in challenging conditions. Specifically, the organization required a solution that could navigate shallow depths, strong currents, and the pronounced stratification characteristic of the Baltic Sea.

The newly delivered glider incorporates design elements specifically engineered to overcome the limitations of conventional systems in coastal waters. The unit features larger batteries that provide three months of durability and includes the option for land-based deployment. These technical adjustments enable continuous and autonomous data collection in environments where other platforms often struggle to operate effectively.

Thibaud Bezacier, CEO of ALSEAMAR, said, “We are proud to deliver the first Shallow Glider to the Voice of the Ocean Foundation. This partnership reflects our shared vision of pushing the boundaries of ocean exploration and research. The Shallow Glider is designed to operate where other autonomous platforms struggle, providing scientists with vital data from challenging shallow-water environments like the Baltic Sea.”

Sanna Thimmig-Johansen, CEO at VOTO, added, “I’m very proud of the work and dedication from our Ocean Tech Team in developing this project. VOTO believes that this technology has the potential to significantly enhance global understanding of ocean processes, providing researchers with new insights into marine ecosystems, climate dynamics, and environmental change.”

To strengthen the collaboration that led to this development, VOTO and ALSEAMAR have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement outlines a shared commitment to advancing marine research technologies and supporting the global glider community.

Key objectives of the MoU include the development of best practices for data quality and piloting, the promotion of glider-based ocean observations, and the continued enhancement of the SEAEXPLORER’s technical capabilities. Additionally, the partnership will focus on training and capacity building.

VOTO played a vital role in the development of the SEAEXPLORER Shallow Glider, providing both financial and scientific support to ensure the technology met specific research requirements. The Baltic Sea, with its unique salinity gradients and limited circulation, will serve as the environment for launching and validating the new glider.

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