What are some examples of underwater robotics used in marine exploration and oceanographic research, and how do underwater vehicles, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and autonomous underwater gliders assist scientists in studying marine ecosystems, geological features, and underwater phenomena in ocean environments?

Underwater robotics play a crucial role in marine exploration and oceanographic research. Here are some examples and how they assist scientists:

– **OceanOneK**: A deep-sea diving humanoid robot developed by Stanford University, capable of reaching depths of 1,000 meters and equipped with advanced haptic feedback systems and stereoscopic vision⁶.
– **BIOSwimmer**: An unmanned, biomimetic underwater robot resembling a tuna fish, designed to enhance port security and monitor submerged infrastructure⁶.
– **Wave Glider**: A surface vehicle that uses wave energy for propulsion and is equipped with sensors for ocean data collection⁶.
– **Eelume**: A flexible robot designed to stay on the seafloor for extended periods, aiding in surveying and maintenance tasks⁶.

**ROVs** are tethered underwater robots that provide real-time data transmission back to a surface vessel, including live video feeds. They are equipped with cameras, lights, sonar systems, and sometimes manipulator arms for collecting samples. ROVs have been instrumental in improving our understanding of water column animals, observing animal behavior, and conducting experiments¹³.

**Autonomous Underwater Gliders** are buoyancy-propelled vehicles that can traverse large distances and collect data on ocean properties like temperature, salinity, and chlorophyll levels. They are particularly effective in long-term monitoring and can operate in challenging environments, extracting energy from the ocean’s vertical temperature gradients¹¹¹³.