Democratize the Science!
The OCEAN-PULSE project addresses the need for accessible and affordable oceanographic monitoring by developing an Open-source Conductivity, Temperature, and Depth (CTD) system integrated with a Pulse-Amplitude Modulated (PAM) fluorometer. This innovative approach enhances the capabilities of traditional CTD instruments, which often present high costs that limit their use, particularly in near-shore studies and by researchers in low- and middle-income countries. The OCEAN-PULSE system is designed to provide sufficient accuracy for ecological monitoring and general oceanographic research, while allowing for multiple deployment methods, such as hand-casting, mooring, or integration with Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). The project involved three primary activities: selecting high-quality sensors and probes for water characterization, developing a robust software architecture for data collection and management, and constructing a durable underwater enclosure with an effective power and communication system. The system's design prioritizes replaceability of components and real-time data acquisition, incorporating advancements in Internet of Things (IoT) technology for enhanced monitoring capabilities. Field testing through in-situ surveys validated the performance and adaptability of the OCEAN-PULSE probes, confirming their potential for diverse applications in oceanographic research. By fostering an online community for documentation and user support, the project aligns with the United Nations Decade for Ocean Science and various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in making oceanographic instruments more affordable and promoting international collaboration. In conclusion, OCEAN-PULSE represents a significant advancement in enhancing the accessibility, affordability, and collaborative nature of oceanographic research, while contributing to global sustainability efforts.
CANUTI Elisabetta;
TRICERRI Luca;
DE CAMILLI Andrea;
2025-04-11
Publications Office of the European Union
JRC141519
978-92-68-26340-2 (online),
1831-9424 (online),
EUR 40285,
OP KJ-01-25-221-EN-N (online),
https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC141519,
10.2760/4712122 (online),