“`html
Marine researchers are making significant strides in unraveling the complexities of sperm whale communication. However, to interpret the messages conveyed by these marine mammals, they first need to locate them and predict their surfacing patterns. This task is particularly challenging, as sperm whales can dive deeper than 10,000 feet and remain submerged for up to an hour. Their expansive habitats cover thousands of miles.
Recently, a team from Project CETI (Cetacean Translation Initiative) in collaboration with Harvard University has introduced an innovative approach for locating sperm whales and forecasting their surfacing behavior through the use of autonomous drones combined with extensive sensor data. The findings were published on October 30 in the journal Science Robotics.
[Related:[Related:[Related:[Related:Sperm whales may possess their own form of ‘alphabet.’]
This new technique allows scientists to experiment with advanced algorithms, sensor technologies, and artificial intelligence within a demanding environment. Launched in 2020, Project CETI aims to gather vocalizations from sperm whales to decode their communication methods. Researchers have utilized tags attached to the whales for real-time tracking alongside specialized drones that monitor their activities.
The recent study employs various sensing technologies including aerial drones equipped with very high frequency (VHF) signal detection capabilities. These devices utilize signal phase variations along with drone movement to simulate an “antenna array” in mid-air. This setup aids in determining the direction from which signals emitted by tagged whales are traveling.
According to researchers involved, this method demonstrates how sensor data can be used effectively to anticipate when and where a sperm whale might surface based on its diving patterns. With this information at hand, Project CETI can develop algorithms that outline optimal routes for drones aiming to encounter these majestic creatures at the ocean’s surface. In future applications, this could enhance conservation efforts such as helping vessels avoid collisions with surfacing whales.
This approach is referred to as the Autonomous Vehicles for Whale Tracking And Rendezvous by Remote Sensing (AVATARS) framework. It consists of two interconnected elements—autonomy and sensing technology. Autonomy focuses on generating positioning commands for autonomous robots deployed strategically while sensing measures angles-of-arrival from whale tags which inform decision-making regarding robot deployment locations. Data collected from autonomous drones, surfaced tags, underwater sensors along with previous biological studies contribute significantly towards enhancing AVATARS’ decision-making algorithm aimed at minimizing missed opportunities during whale encounters.
[Related:[Related:[Related:[Related:Sperm whale clans distinguish each other through unique accents.]
A comparable application of this time-sensitive rendezvous strategy is found within popular
When a passenger requests transportation via an app interface it promptly assigns nearby drivers ensuring swift service delivery.
The team asserts that Project CETI’s methodology operates similarly; it tracks live movements of sperm whales aiming ultimately towards coordinating drone rendezvous upon reaching water surfaces.
“Contributing towards this groundbreaking initiative under Project CETI excites me,” stated Stephanie Gil , co-author & computer scientist at Harvard University ,
< p >The post
“`
