Atlantis Found Off Cuba: Tech & Startups Helping Us Unlock The Secrets Of The Deep

Archaeology has an unsolved mystery beneath the waves surrounding Cuba. Indy100 recently reported that in 2000, the Canadian company Advanced Digital Communications (ADC) discovered strange structures on the ocean floor off the Guanahacabibes Peninsula. These structures, resembling urban development, were detected by sonar equipment during a survey.

The subsequent expedition, led by marine engineer Pauline Zelitsky and her husband Paul Weinzweig, confirmed the presence of granite-like blocks arranged in patterns suggestive of deliberate construction. Despite speculation about a lost city or even Atlantis, experts like geologist Manuel Iturralde caution that the structures’ depth challenges conventional theories.

Further exploration has been hindered by funding issues and governmental blockades. Nevertheless, this discovery highlights the need to revisit assumptions about human civilisation’s history, as significant archaeological finds may lie beneath the world’s oceans.

How Is Tech Helping Us Explore The Deep Blue?

Technological advancements have completely transformed the way we explore the depths of the ocean. From the seafloor to marine life, these advancements have revolutionised our understanding of the oceans and opened up new avenues for scientific discovery. Let’s take a closer look at ten ways these technologies are contributing to our understanding of the deep blue.

1. Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs):

These independent underwater robots help explore ocean depths by gathering data without direct human intervention.

2. Environmental DNA (eDNA):

Scientists can uncover new insights into marine life and ecosystems by analysing genetic material shed by organisms in the water.

3. Geographic Information System (GIS):

This computer-based framework organises and analyses data related to Earth’s surface, aiding in mapping and understanding oceanic features.

4. Human-occupied Vehicles (HOVs):

Submersibles like HOVs enable scientists to conduct in-person research and observation at deep-sea locations.

5. Magnetometer:

This instrument measures changes in the Earth’s magnetic field, assisting in various oceanic studies and explorations.

6. Photogrammetry:

By using two-dimensional images to approximate three-dimensional structures, photogrammetry helps rapidly record underwater archaeological sites and seafloor features.

7. Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs):

Submersible robots like ROVs allow ocean exploration without direct human presence, capturing valuable data and imagery.

8. Satellites:

Environmental satellites observe and detect features of Earth’s oceans, providing valuable data for oceanographic research and monitoring.

9. Sonar:

Utilised for finding objects underwater and determining water depth, sonar technologies like side-scan and multibeam sonar aid in mapping seafloor and detecting marine objects.

10. Synthetic Aperture Sonar (SAS):

SAS utilises artificial arrays to capture high-resolution images of underwater environments, assisting in habitat classification and archaeological exploration.

Startups Diving Deeper To Explore Our Oceans

Startups with a passion for ocean conservation are diving deeper into exploration. Using advanced tech like AI and innovative farming methods, they unravel ocean mysteries while protecting its ecosystems. With a commitment to sustainability, these ventures lead the way to a brighter future for our oceans.

Open Ocean Robotics

Open Ocean Robotics pioneers safe and affordable ocean monitoring solutions with DataXplorer™.

Their solar-powered uncrewed surface vehicle (USV), equipped with patented technology, offers emission-free ocean data collection in extreme conditions. Paired with XplorerView™, a cloud-based data management system, they provide real-time data acquisition and analytics.

Open Ocean Robotics strives to revolutionise ocean exploration and protection, catering to diverse sectors like research, offshore energy, and maritime domain awareness.

XOCEAN

XOCEAN, a leading provider of ocean data solutions, operates the world’s largest fleet of survey class Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USVs). These USVs are designed to remain offshore for extended periods, harvesting large volumes of ocean data while keeping operators and data analysts safely onshore.

With a focus on efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and low environmental impact, XOCEAN offers a range of services including offshore wind, geophysical, environmental, asset integrity, bathymetry, and fisheries data collection. Through their cutting-edge technology and global coverage, XOCEAN delivers high-quality ocean data to companies and government agencies worldwide.

Bedrock Ocean Exploration

Bedrock Ocean Exploration is dedicated to mapping and understanding the oceans swiftly and comprehensively. As a Public Benefit Corporation, they vow to explore and map Earth’s oceans, ensuring a defined public benefit throughout their journey.

With a data-first approach, Bedrock reduces costs, enhances safety, and shares their findings with the public, aiming to make ocean data accessible to all.

ecoSUB Robotics

ecoSUB Robotics, a division of Planet Ocean Limited, pioneers advanced, small, and affordable Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) technology. Their mission is to make AUV technology accessible to all, reducing barriers to autonomous system use in the underwater environment.

With lightweight, portable systems and easy-to-use software, ecoSUB offers a range of AUVs for various applications, from ocean science to offshore energy and maritime domain awareness. Through innovation and collaboration, ecoSUB Robotics is transforming ocean exploration and data collection.

Samudra Oceans

Samudra Oceans, a London-based robotics startup co-founded by Joyeeta Das and Alex Facey, aims to revolutionise ocean exploration through sustainable seaweed farming. Their AI-powered monitoring robots provide real-time data on water conditions, empowering farmers to optimise yields while reducing costs and environmental impact.

Through seaweed farming, they tackle climate change, support biodiversity, and empower coastal communities globally.