The National Oceanography Centre has today begun the latest in a series of ambitious marine robotic vehicle trials off the UK coast. Working in partnership with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), NOC has deployed a submarine glider and an autonomous surface vehicle into the Celtic Deep area of the Celtic Sea – the two robotic vehicles will now work together over the next three weeks to investigate why this area is particularly attractive to marine predators such as dolphins and seabirds.

NOC’s Prof Russell Wynn, who is co-ordinating the research, said “The Celtic Sea contains known hotspots for iconic and highly mobile marine animals such as the mighty Fin Whale and the globally threatened Balearic Shearwater. However, we need a greater density of observations to really understand why these hotspots are so attractive to these animals, and how stable they are in space and time. Marine robotic technologies give us the opportunity to have a persistent presence in these areas, and are changing the way in which we conduct science in the marine environment.” Dr Lyndsey Dodds, Head of Marine Policy at WWF-UK, said “WWF is excited to support this innovative technology in order to get a clearer picture of what’s out there in our seas. Only through increased understanding can we can identify what needs to be done to ensure good management and protection. We’re lucky that the UK seas are home to many spectacular animals and to fascinating areas such as the Celtic Deep. By ensuring our seas are healthy and productive we can ensure a strong marine economy and prosperous coastal communities that depend on the resources and business opportunities the seas provide.” Click here for more information.