At present, ICBM research group “Processes and Sensing of Marine Interfaces”, headed by marine chemist Prof. Dr. Oliver Wurl are testing their most recent device: “Autocat”. The autonomously operating catamaran is going to complement “Sea Surface Scanner” (S³) in the near future. “S³”, another small catamaran, already provided valuable services during the investigation of the delicate ocean surface layer by the Wurl group. The pellicule at the ocean-atmosphere boundary exerts a significant influence on the exchange of matter between ocean and atmosphere and is a major object of research of Prof. Wurl.

Equipped with other sensors than “S³”, “Autocat” is going to measure surface near salinities to validate remote sensing data, amongst others. The Wurl group therefore cooperates with ESA. Before “Autocat” will be equipped with high-grade sensors, an error-free operation of the controlling and propulsion system has to be ensured.

During its first autonomous cruise, “Autocat“ slid through the waves of the north-western German Jade Bay on Tuesday. „We will be able to sail transects with the GPS-controlled catamaran in precise lines as well as in particular patterns in the near future,“ says Wurl gladly, and he adds:“Remotely operated “S³” fails to do so.“ Moreover, “Autocat“ can be operated about 20 to 24 hours, i.e. five to six times longer than “S³”, which nevertheless, due to its unique equipment, will be used furthermore for special tasks such as gathering water samples.

“Autocat“ has been assembled in the workshop of the Wilhelmshaven site of ICBM. Two precast demi-hulls were interconnected by a novel vertical platform, equipped with a measuring device carrier on the basis of a rebuilt steel sailing mast. The autonomous piloting system of the 4 hp double electric engine propelled device was designed in the course of his bachelor’s thesis by informatics student Marvin Barthmann. During his work on the thesis he was supervised in a joint manner by the Oldenburg Institute for Informatics (OFFIS) and ICBM. At present, Barthmann reinforces the Wurl team during the testing of “Autocat“. Wurl expects the new catamaran to be completed and ready for service by next spring.