Ultra-high resolution multi-aperture side-scan sonar system for AUVs, ROVs & towfish platforms

Solstice MAS is a high-resolution multi-aperture sonar developed for autonomous and remotely operated underwater vehicles conducting mine countermeasure, hydrographic survey, and subsea inspection missions. Engineered to maximise mission endurance while delivering detailed underwater imagery, the system combines low power consumption with advanced onboard processing to generate high-fidelity, geo-coded sonar data in real time. Utilising 32-channel back projection processing, Multi-path Suppression Array Technology (MSAT), and Real-Time Array Calibration (RTAC), Solstice MAS produces sharp, high-contrast imagery across challenging shallow-water and littoral environments while maintaining precise target focus across a 3 cm by 3 cm grid.

Optimised for low-logistic UUV and AUV operations, Solstice MAS delivers area coverage rates of up to 1.6 square kilometres per hour at 6 knots, supporting efficient Search, Classify, and Map (SCM) workflows for mine hunting and hydrographic applications. The system provides along-track resolution options of 0.15° and 0.075°, selectable operating frequencies between 725 and 775 kHz, integrated bathymetry capability, and depth ratings up to 1,500 m. Designed for straightforward platform integration, Solstice MAS features open interfaces, Automatic Target Recognition (ATR) readiness, and real-time geo-referencing functionality while consuming as little as 18 W for array operation. Its combination of compact form factor, low acoustic noise, and high-quality seabed imaging makes it well suited to modern unmanned maritime operations requiring persistent underwater data collection and accurate target detection.

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