SeaTrac Systems has launched the SP-48, a persistent unmanned surface vessel (USV) designed to provide a flexible data-gathering and communications platform that can be adapted to a wide variety of missions and equipped with a range of payloads. Suitable for commercial, scientific and defense applications, the 4.8-metre USV is solar-powered, sensor-agnostic and features a low logistical footprint.
The SeaTrac SP-48 has a speed of 5kts, 500W payload power, and 70kg payload capacity, and can be fitted with a variety of sensors for the collection and communication of real-time ocean data over long durations. Built to operate in all marine environments, including inland, near shore and open ocean, the SP-48 has a self-righting hull and efficient electric motor, meaning that it does not rely on wind or waves for propulsion. It is easily deployed from a boat ramp, pier or ship. It can use line of sight Radio Frequency (RF), cellular, high-bandwidth satellite or custom networks for communication, and is also equipped with Automatic Identification System (AIS) collision avoidance.
The versatile USV is ideal for applications such as marine and aquatic research, oceanography and meteorological monitoring, environmental monitoring, hydrography, acoustic monitoring, data gateway and data harvesting, mobile buoy and positioning, security and situational awareness, and more.
Buddy Duncan, co-founder of SeaTrac Systems, commented: “Increasingly, customers’ missions have grown in complexity requiring a range of sensors, and they’re looking for less costly, less resource-intensive and more flexible solutions to carry out a variety of tasks simultaneously in the challenging ocean environment. SeaTrac’s customizable USVs offer a simple, cost-effective and open platform to perform the dangerous, dull and dirty work with greater efficiency over current methods.”
Jigger Herman, another co-founder of SeaTrac Systems, said: “The new SP-48 is designed with ample power to allow customers to perform multiple mission tasks based on the desired industry leading or custom payload package on a single platform – streamlining their operations and eliminating the need to support multiple systems. As a result, customers will be able to obtain all of their data in real-time simultaneously on the same platform, simplifying their workflow while reducing staffing requirements.”
