Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) for marine mammal detection and underwater noise assessment

Conventional underwater based acoustic deployment platforms, such as boats, drifting systems or moored long term acoustic data loggers are often expensive, complex and are usually deployed in dangerous environments. A novel alternative involving the use of a waterproof Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) for the deployment of underwater acoustic sensors is presented. The system has the capability of overcoming the limitations of current deployment methods, while also being able to self-deploy and self-retrieve, and will improve deployment and redeployment times.