Georgia Smith

Subsea Europe Service GmbH appointed as new GeoAcoustics Ltd partner

GeoAcoustics Ltd is pleased to report the recent signing of a partnership agreement with hydroacoustic technology specialist Subsea Europe Services GmbH, who will add the GeoPulse Sub Bottom Profiler technology to its subsea sales & rental portfolios. The agreement with the Hamburg, Germany-based marine survey sensors, services and solutions provider builds on the extensive worldwide partner network GeoAcoustics Ltd has established since becoming an independent company.

GeoAcoustics Ltd now has approved representation in 70 countries from China and Singapore to the USA and Scandinavia.

“With experience and access to the North Sea coastal zone and offshore sectors, as well as reach into European inland waterways, we expect our partnership with Subsea Europe Services to meet existing demand while opening up new areas and applications for our products,” said Richard Dowdeswell, General Manager, GeoAcoustics Ltd.

“The GeoAcoustics name is synonymous with reliability and effectiveness in the shallow water market, and we are pleased to bring the quality and functionality it represents into our portfolio for sales and rental customers,” said Sören Themann, CEO, Subsea Europe Services GmbH.

Find out more about Subsea Europe Services GmbH at https://www.subsea-europe.com and locate your nearest GeoAcoustics partner at https://geoacoustics.com/channel-partners.

by Georgia Smith

Tropical seafloor secrets discovered as mission to map world's entire seabed gains momentum

Satellite technology has been used to chart shallow areas of the Cook Islands’ seafloor in never-before-seen detail by scientists at the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) and Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) working with the satellite data analytics company, EOMAP GmbH. The work was carried out as part of The Nippon Foundation-GEBCO Seabed 2030 Project – a collaborative project aiming to bring together all available bathymetric data to produce the definitive map of the world ocean floor.

The discovery coincides with the One Ocean Summit, held in France, which saw UNESCO call on the international community to strengthen efforts in pursuit of mapping the remainder of the ocean floor – 20.6 per cent has been mapped to date.

The chart of Suwarrow and Pukapuka in the Cook Islands builds upon decades-old surveys, with more accurate positioning and wider coverage, including information on harder to reach areas such as shallow lagoons.

Kevin Mackay, a Researcher of Marine Geology at NIWA, also heads Seabed 2030’s South and West Pacific Ocean Data Centre – one of the project’s four Regional Centres, each responsible for data gathering and mapping in their territory.

Commenting on the use of satellites as a tool for measuring the shallow parts of the ocean floor, Kevin says “To measure the depth of the ocean, you would traditionally have to send out a boat with an echosounder, which costs a lot of money and can be dangerous in rough and shallow seas.

“With satellites, we can access extremely remote locations, with less carbon footprint, and without having to endanger people.”

The images are taken from two commercially owned satellites, World-View-2 and GeoEye-1, which provide extremely high-resolution pictures of the earth’s surface. As a result, data accuracy is greatly improved. Satellite derived bathymetry can be used to a maximum water depth of 30m.

Stuart Caie, Manager Hydrographic Survey from LINZ, said: “The technology and processes are very clever – the satellite can see the shallow sea floor in exquisite detail, but to derive the water depth the software needs to get rid of obstructions such as shadows and waves.

“The software therefore strips away the water and uses complex algorithms to produce depth estimations before creating a map with colourings of what the seafloor would look like without any water, which we then use.”

Seabed 2030 – which is formally endorsed as a flagship programme of the Ocean Decade – is a collaborative project between The Nippon Foundation and the General Bathymetric Chart of the Oceans (GEBCO) to inspire the complete mapping of the world's ocean and compile all bathymetric data into the freely available GEBCO Ocean Map. GEBCO is a joint programme of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC).

The South and West Pacific Ocean Regional Centre is made up of NIWA, GNS Science and LINZ, who are working together to map over 123 million km2 of ocean.

The nautical chart will be published in February and is hoped to improve ocean safety and scientific knowledge.

by Georgia Smith

Fugro joins UN Ocean Decade Alliance to advance global marine science agenda

Fugro has accepted an invitation from the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (IOC-UNESCO) to join the Ocean Decade Alliance (the ‘Alliance’). Comprising an eminent network of global leaders and institutions, the Alliance aims to catalyse support for the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development 2021 2030 (the ‘Ocean Decade’) through targeted resource mobilization, networking and influence.

IOC-UNESCO Executive Secretary Dr. Vladimir Ryabinin extended the invitation to Fugro CEO Mark Heine based on the company’s demonstrated and sustained commitment to the vision of the Ocean Decade. Fugro’s recent partnership agreement with IOC UNESCO to transform the coordination of and access to global ocean science data, including privately-held Geo data assets, exemplifies this commitment. The agreement includes significant in-kind support from Fugro via loan of experts to the IOC-Secretariat in Paris for establishing and administering two key ocean science working groups.

As a member of the Alliance, Fugro will collaborate and coordinate with other Alliance members in leveraging existing commitments to raise awareness about Ocean Decade objectives and activities worldwide; create a platform for demonstrating the role and power of science in providing solutions for ocean sustainability; and establish a broad international network that stimulates additional actions and commitments in the framework of the Ocean Decade across all levels of society.

Fugro CEO Mark Heine stated:

“We are proud to support the Ocean Decade and honoured to be part of the Ocean Decade Alliance. It is critical that the private-sector help lead this global initiative, as we collectively have much to offer and much to gain from a sustainable and equitable ocean economy. I can personally attest that Fugro is up for the leadership challenge and will deliver on the trust that has been instilled in us.”

For more information please contact Edward Legierse [email protected]. 

About Fugro

Fugro is the world’s leading Geo-data specialist, collecting and analysing comprehensive information about the Earth and the structures built upon it. Adopting an integrated approach that incorporates acquisition and analysis of Geo-data and related advice, Fugro provides solutions. With expertise in site characterisation and asset integrity, clients are supported in the safe, sustainable and efficient design, construction and operation of their assets throughout the full life cycle.

Employing approximately 9000 talented people in 61 countries, Fugro serves clients around the globe, predominantly in the energy and infrastructure industries, both offshore and onshore. In 2020, revenue amounted to EUR 1.4 billion. Fugro is listed on Euronext Amsterdam.

About the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO

The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO (IOC-UNESCO) promotes international cooperation in marine sciences to improve management of the ocean, coasts and marine resources. The IOC enables its 150 Member States to work together by coordinating programmes in capacity development, ocean observations and services, ocean science and tsunami warning. The work of the IOC contributes to the mission of UNESCO to promote the advancement of science and its applications to develop knowledge and capacity, key to economic and social progress, the basis of peace and sustainable development.

Find more here > http://ioc.unesco.org

About the Ocean Decade

Proclaimed in 2017 by the United Nations General Assembly, the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030) (‘the Ocean Decade’) seeks to stimulate ocean science and knowledge generation to reverse the decline of the state of the ocean system and catalyse new opportunities for sustainable development of this massive marine ecosystem. The vision of the Ocean Decade is ‘the science we need for the ocean we want’. The Ocean Decade provides a convening framework for scientists and stakeholders from diverse sectors to develop the scientific knowledge and the partnerships needed to accelerate and harness advances in ocean science to achieve a better understanding of the ocean system, and deliver science-based solutions to achieve the 2030 Agenda. The UN General Assembly mandated UNESCO's Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) to coordinate the preparations and implementation of the Decade.

Find more here > http://oceandecade.org

by Georgia Smith

Sonardyne launch wireless seabed unexploded ordnance disposal capability

Marine technology company, Sonardyne, is aiming to improve the safety and efficiency of unexploded ordnance (UXO) clearance during offshore energy projects with the introduction of a secure, wireless underwater initiation capability.

The company’s new Initiation Transponder 6 (IT 6) is designed to be connected directly to a remotely deployed, non-electric mine neutralisation device, such as a Viper MDS from ECS Special Projects. This allows explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams to send a wireless, acoustic command from their vessel, safely initiating a shock tube detonator. Recent demonstrations were conducted over distances in excess of 1,000 m away.

IT 6 is based on Sonardyne’s field-proven Wideband 2 digital signal technology, which offers a reliable and long-range underwater wireless communications link. The development of IT 6 means that technicians no longer need to wire UXO neutralisers up to signal relay buoys on the surface and are not restricted to good weather and daylight for setting up an initiation operation.

IT 6 is small, lightweight and designed to be placed by an ROV or diver for both high order detonation and low order deflagration. It features multiple layers of security to prevent unintended activation, including a hydrostatic switch, which only allows the unit to be armed when a pre-determined depth has been reached.

Operations using IT 6s are controlled using Sonardyne’s new rugged Deck Topside case and cabled dunker. Environmentally rated to IP67, the case features a daylight readable interactive 7-inch resistive touch screen and rechargeable battery, for when operating on small boats with no external power.

The user interface was designed in close co-operation with EOD technicians and enables operating parameters to be set and multiple IT 6s to be configured prior to deployment. During a live operation, two physical buttons provide an additional layer of security, requiring users to hold one button to arm, then simultaneously press the other to initiate.

The dunker, which is supplied with 10 m of cable, provides a secure two-way communications link between the surface and IT 6, and is simply lowered over the side of a vessel.

John Houlder, Product Manager at Sonardyne said; “European waters are littered with unexploded ordnance (UXO), the result of past military conflicts, training exercises, weapons development and dumping activities at sea. During the construction phases of wind farms, for example, the risk to personnel, assets and project timescales are significant.”

“When disposal rather than avoidance is deemed necessary for turbine or cable route placement, our new IT 6 and topside will help those involved with the hazardous task operate entirely wirelessly and in any weather, day or night. Underwater acoustic command and control is a core Sonardyne capability, so IT 6 can be considered as reliable and as secure as traditional methods involving shock tubes and a lot safer than electrical detonation lines.”

Image Captions:

Sonardyne_IT 6: IT 6 is used with Sonardyne’s new IP67-rated, touch-screen Deck Topside case and cabled dunker, which can be used without any need for an external power source. Photo from Sonardyne.

Sonardyne_IT 6_illustration: With IT 6, mine clearances operations can be performed wirelessly and remotely, making site preparation work safer and more efficient. Artist’s illustration.

by Georgia Smith

Custom Umbilical for powerful ROV

When a powerful Remotely operated vehicle ROV has to face tough offshore conditions, it has to be connected with the proper reliable umbilical cable. This is why Copenhagen Subsea addressed Novacavi for its Gorilla ROV new cable solution and Novacavi developed a custom neutrally buoyant fiber optic data umbilical cable for fast and noise immune transfer of data. The perfect mix of materials, correct configuration and production capabilities sort out in an umbilical cable able to guarantee manoeuvrability and reliability while supporting ROV operations in harsh and demanding environments such as offshore wind farms where strong currents activity is the norm.

Specialist in custom cable design & manufacturing for advanced technology since 1975, NOVACAVI develops any cable solutions with engineering expertise, comprehensive knowledge of materials and a high degree of manufacturing.

You can meet Novacavi at OI 2022 London on stand N250 next 15-17 March.

For more details, please contact [email protected] or visit https://www.novacavi.it/custom-umbilical-for-powerful-rov/.

by Georgia Smith

Seafloor Systems to Deliver EchoBoat-240 USV to Newcrest Mining

The Seafloor EchoBoat-240 is a 2.5m / 8ft remote vessel that excels in mapping confined or shallow waters where traditional multibeam survey methods are not suitable.

In a sale facilitated through Ultimate Positioning Group, one of our esteemed worldwide dealers in Australia, client Newcrest Mining has purchased an EchoBoat-240 USV for hydrographic survey missions in Papua New Guinea.

The Unmanned Surface Vessel, utilizing an integrated Teledyne SeaBat T50-ER multibeam sonar system, will remotely collect vital depth data in waters ranging from 5m-700m deep. The data results will be used to guide the planning and managing of waste disposal to support Newcrest Mining's operations.

Taking the client's operational needs into full consideration, the Seafloor team custom-designed this EchoBoat-240. From drawing board to production, our technicians performed the complete system integration, cable by cable.

Here's a breakdown of the build list:
• EchoBoat-240 USV with SmartCast Sensor Winch
• SeaBat T50-R Ultra-High Resolution Broadband Multibeam Sonar with ER Projector
• Seafloor HydroLite DFX-Plus Dual Frequency Echosounder Kit
• Applanix RTK Wavemaster II INS
• Valeport SWiFT SVP
• AML Oceanographic AML-1 SVS
• Hypack Hydrographic Data Software

Once delivered, Newcrest Mining will receive Seafloor's support to assemble the USV, confirm complete system functionality, and train members of the team on proper operation of the vessel. Through this partnership with Ultimate Positioning Group and Newcrest Mining, Seafloor will be able to proudly deliver another proven hydrographic survey solution.

by Georgia Smith

UKHO contracts OceanWise to provide Marine Environmental Monitoring Systems

OceanWise has, through competitive tender been awarded the contract to supply, install, and maintain Marine Environmental Monitoring Systems (MEMS) globally as part of an initial 3-year Framework Agreement with the UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO). The framework also includes the provision of data collection, management and display system, which will be provided through OceanWise's Port-Log. The framework also includes shore control and GNSS surveys, as well as local training and mentoring. The UKHO has identified the installation and operation of MEMS as being an important component of a number of UK Government Programmes including the Overseas Territories Seabed Mapping Programme (OTSMP). Countries and territories can benefit from the MEMS through improved navigational safety and improving knowledge of the marine environment to assist with scientific research in understanding of the implications of climate change.

Under the framework agreement, OceanWise is responsible for the supply, installation, and support of professional grade environmental monitoring equipment (such as Tide Gauges and Weather Stations), as well as providing observational data to the local community and global initiatives, such as the Global Sea Level Observing System (GLOSS). OceanWise's data services can benefit the maritime community directly, through such things as the provision of tsunami and storm surge warnings, and via more accurate and up-to-date Tide Tables.

Ralph Bostock, Monitoring Business Manager at OceanWise stated, “We are delighted to be working with the UKHO and to have won this contract after a robust tendering process. We already support and maintain numerous tide gauges and weather stations around the world for our port and renewable energy customers, so this contract is a natural extension of our work. We are particularly looking forward to using our expertise and experience in environmental monitoring systems and applying it to unique and remote locations. Our in-depth technical knowledge of marine data acquisition, telemetry and data management will also be fully utilised in this contract as we support the UKHO in realising the full benefit that MEMS can offer”.

This contract win swiftly follows a series of other contracts awarded to the growing Hampshire based company, including the maintenance and upgrade of the UK National Tide Gauge Network. More details on this and other projects can be found www.oceanwise.eu/customer_case_studies.

About OceanWise

OceanWise Ltd is an independent company specialising in all aspects of marine
environmental data acquisition, data and knowledge management and GIS providing
customers with comprehensive and cost effective end-to-end marine and coastal data
management and decision support including:

•  Intelligent Marine Mapping (Raster Charts, Raster Charts XL, Marine Themes and Marine Themes DEM)
• Marine Data Management Policy and Strategy Advice and Training
• Enterprise GIS and Productivity Tools (Maritime Toolbar and Workflow Extensions)
• Environmental Data Sharing and Publishing (Ocean Database and Port-Log.net)

For more information about OceanWise, please contact [email protected] or visit www.oceanwise.eu.

by Georgia Smith

EOMAP awarded new survey contract by UKHO

The UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO) have signed a new three-to-five-year framework contract for Satellite-Derived Bathymetry (SDB) with EOMAP. In the course of a competitive tender the German based experts for Earth Observation have – again– been ranked first-choice provider of SDB. The first batch covers 9,000 sqkm shallow waters of Belize.

Starting 2022, EOMAP will deliver high-resolution shallow water grids from SDB technology to UKHO, with the first survey covering the waters of Belize. This survey will be the first complete survey of some of these waters, including where uncharted coral pinnacles are currently noted on the chart.

“The UKHO is pleased to be continuing our partnership with EOMAP, leveraging cutting-edge survey technology like SDB to supplement existing hydrographic surveying and related charting products. SDB adds significant value and cost-effectiveness when surveying difficult-to-access areas of the ocean, while minimising the impact on the marine environment“, says Ian Davies, International Hydrographic Portfolio Manager, UKHO.

“It’s a pleasure to complement UKHO’s survey capabilities. We are already working on the first engagement: Mapping Belizean waters covering an area of 9,000 square kilometres”, explains Knut Hartmann, COO of EOMAP. “For us, this contract is a proof of trust in the quality of our satellite analytics. Moreover, it shows that our SDB technology is a must-have in the toolbox of modern hydrographers and surveyors, when it comes to mapping shallow waters.”

In 2015, EOMAP was selected as the first-choice provider by UKHO for the first time. Within this framework contract, their satellite analytics had been included in the ADMIRALTY Navigational Chart 2066 of Southern Antigua, Caribbean. In addition to surveyors and hydrographers, coastal zone managers, planners and engineers all over the world value these shallow water grids for their work.

by Georgia Smith