The Spray Glider
The robotic underwater glider Spray provides data for scientific research and societal benefit.
2 meters
Long from nose to tail
110 lbs
Two people can lift it
1000 meters
deep into the ocean
Spray Glider Measurements
Water Temperature
Salinity
Chlorophyll
Backscatter
Oxygen
Velocity
Alone at sea for months, texts home every day
A Spray glider moves slowly through the water and collects information about the water it is traveling through. It collects a series of vertical profiles from the ocean surface to the seafloor (up to 1000m deep).
In typical operations to 1000 m depth, a Spray glider travels 15 miles and makes 4 profiles per day. When on the ocean surface, about every six hours, it sends the information it collected underwater back via satellite, and then dives back down to continue collecting data. An underwater glider runs on batteries and can stay out to sea for months at a time.
Advanced technology for challenging environments
Buoyancy Control
A glider uses buoyancy to move up and down. It steers with its wings and tail and by shifting its weight.
Satellite Communication
Gliders have satellite antennas to communicate to shore similar to sending a text message.
GPS Navigation
Gliders navigate with GPS and can be programmed while at sea to their change course.