Fundy Ocean Research Center for Energy (FORCE) has recovered the Fundy Advanced Sensor Technology (FAST) platform after a month-long sea trial in the Bay of Fundy.
The underwater monitoring platform FAST-1, designed to improve the understanding of environmental conditions in the Bay of Fundy, has been retrieved mid-July after 27-days of sea trials.
FORCE informed that the analysis of sensor data from the FAST-1 is now underway.
FAST program encompasses three separate underwater platforms, onshore radar, meteorological instruments, and a tide gauge.
At 4.5 tonnes and 4 metres in length, FAST-1 platform is designed for frequent deployment and recovery to enable instrument testing and monitoring. It is equipped with Aanderaa SeaGuard Platform, the Sequoia LISST, ASL Acoustic Profiler, Nortek Signature 500, and the TRDI Sentinel V s100.
“These sensors will add to our understanding of site conditions, including the presence and vertical distribution of fish at the site, and help inform our research and monitoring programs as they continue to evolve,” said Tony Wright , FORCE General Manager.
Andrew Lowery , Head of FAST program, added: “Many ocean sensors have not been designed to operate in extreme high flows like those at the FORCE site in the Minas Passage. The platforms are designed to help us advance our ability to capture data in these challenging, complex conditions.”
The FAST program complements FORCE’s regulated environmental effects monitoring programs, which in 2016 focus on fish, lobster, marine mammals, seabirds, and marine noise.