Long-Range Autonomous Underwater Vehicle

Synopsis: Sources Sought The National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC) is conducting market research for the purpose of identifying small businesses that have demonstrated capability to provide a commercial Long-Range Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (UUV) that will be integrated with an existing modular payload to capture stereo images for scallop surveys within wind energy areas.

The NEFSC requires alternative technologies to maintain survey data collection and to observe ecosystem changes within wind energy installations. NEFSC scallop surveys currently produce precise and accurate data using a standardized dredge and a towed optical system known as HabCam (habitat camera). An UUV with a payload that matches HabCam’s imaging and sensing capabilities will both help mitigate impacts of wind development on surveys and broaden data collection for fishery management.

The stereo images and accompanying metadata need to be collected at least every 10 m on a given track line. Images are best taken within 1-2.5 m of the seabed (although a certain percentage of images can be tolerated up to 5m above the seabed where it is necessary for navigation). SEE ATTACHMENT