He says because the submarines are steerable, they can collect data about ocean currents that isn't possible using moored or drifting instruments, and at a fraction of the cost of research vessels and satellites. To steer its course the submarine uses a porpoising motion, which gives it the ability to descend to a depth of nearly 3,300 feet. An inflated oil-filled chamber helps regulate depth changes, while a set of winged gliders help stir the submarine. Commands are sent to the submarine via the Iridium satellite phone network, and an onboard global positioning system helps it record its position. "The submarine sends information every time it comes to the surface, about every six hours, and it sends the data via satellite," says Ridgway. "We receive that and then send it the location we want it to head for. It came be programmed with several of these ahead of time." Ridgway admits the submarine test was as much about learning how to pilot the glider as it was about collecting data. "It doesn't have any propulsion to help it move forward or backwards -- it just glides. So if the currents are too strong it can be a real problem," he says. "We really had to work within what we could do." Related Links: |
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