Open-Source Underwater Survey Drone (AUV)

Overview:

The AUV is designed to autonomously map the ocean floor in search of lost shipwrecks and archaeological artifacts, with an ultimate depth goal of 2000m. Paired with a solar-powered, Starlink-connected mothership for infinite range, it will evolve through incremental stages, starting at 80m.

Objectives:

Map underwater terrain with high-resolution imagery and sonar, scaling from 80m to 2000m depths.
Achieve infinite range via mothership docking and recharging.
Enable real-time data access and remote control with Starlink.
Develop an open-source platform for global collaboration and cost reduction.

Design Specifications (Proposed):

AUV Core:
Depth Rating:
Stage 1: 80m (shallow coastal)
Stage 2: 300m (shelves)
Stage 3: 2000m (deep sea / Azores Plateau)
Sensors: High-res cameras (with lighting), side-scan/multibeam sonar, magnetometer.
Propulsion: Brushless DC thrusters for efficiency.
Docking: Magnetic/mechanical system for mothership recharging.

Mothership:
Connectivity: Starlink for real-time data and remote control.
Power: Solar panels to charge AUV and mothership batteries.
Design: Stable platform (e.g., 2-4 m catamaran) with docking bay.
Autonomy: GPS anchoring or drift mode.

System Integration:
Software: Autonomous grid mapping, docking coordination, data streaming (e.g., ArduSub, ROS).
Battery: AUV: 6-12 hour runtime; Mothership: stores solar surplus.

Cost:
Target: $10,000-$50,000 (Stage 1), increasing with depth upgrades.

Open-Source:
License (e.g., MIT) for hardware and software.
Accessible components (e.g., Starlink, Raspberry Pi, affordable housings).

Call for Proposals:

We are looking for engineers, software developers, marine scientists, 3D printing enthusiasts, solar experts, and ocean explorers — anyone passionate about uncovering history!
We’re seeking input to develop the AUV (Stage 1 - 80m) and design the mothership, with ideas welcome for future stages. Contribute in these areas:

AUV Design:
Hull materials and pressure resistance (80m start).
Sensors (cameras, sonar, magnetometer).
Propulsion and docking mechanisms.

Mothership Design:
Solar power integration and battery storage.
Starlink setup and data relay.
Structural stability and docking bay.

Software:
Autonomous navigation and mapping for AUV and Mothership.
Docking coordination and data streaming.

Documentation:
Build guides, schematics, and replication instructions.

Gallery:

Comments: