Autonomous underwater vehicles for Ocean Exploration

Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) have evolved rapidly and now serve many applications in commercial, military, and scientific sectors. The NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration (OE) recognizes AUVs as an important component of its research and operational programs. From large survey vehicles to small hand deployed systems, the entire spectrum of AUVs has a role to play in OE programs. This paper discusses aspects of AUV research and development supported by, and of interest to, OE. Current and envisioned operational use of AUVs in exploration will be described and examples of exploration missions that would benefit from both current and near-future AUV capabilities are presented.