Florida International University (FIU) is launching its iconic underwater research laboratory, Aquarius Reef Base, into a new era of ocean science through a groundbreaking collaboration with technology start-up Tekmara. The partnership will integrate advanced artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and data solutions to create a new generation of “smart labs” that will provide real-time, intelligent environmental monitoring to protect and conserve the world’s oceans.
FIU Aquarius, the world’s only operational underwater research habitat, is strategically located 60 feet below the surface in the protected Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. The collaboration will see Tekmara’s sensor technology and AI-powered monitoring systems installed in and around the habitat, shifting scientific capability from traditional data collection to intelligent, real-time analysis.
“This project brings together two of FIU’s priorities to help grow ocean exploration: environmental research and technology,” said FIU President Jeanette M. Nuñez. “What scientists learn at the Medina Aquarius Program will prove pivotal for the future of Florida’s tourism and economy. FIU will continue to lead the way in marine conservation and research.”
The new AI-enabled systems are designed to autonomously detect environmental anomalies, such as pollution sources or oxygen depletion, learn from the ocean environment, and provide data for real-time solutions. In a major technological leap, the partnership will also cut the cord for data transmission, using wireless data storage and transmission, and powering the habitat largely with renewable energy sources including solar and marine renewable energy. The final result will be a new generation smart lab continuously delivering critical scientific insights for global marine health and resilience.
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Mike Heithaus, FIU Vice Provost of Environmental Resilience and marine ecologist, highlighted the significance of the upgrade. “FIU Aquarius has long been a global asset for advancing scientific exploration, research and discovery. With these new advances, our habitat is becoming more efficient and more equipped to support the amazing work being done by FIU scientists, as well as scientists and industry partners from around the world.”
The knowledge gained will be incorporated into FIU’s Medina Aquarius Program, transforming onsite training for scientists and astronauts and supporting the development of new ocean conservation technologies.
Beyond research, the advanced systems will significantly enhance safety and security. By detecting and tracking surface vessels, the technology will help ensure compliance within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, notifying enforcement officials of any unauthorized activities.
“FIU is a fantastic partner in the pursuit of making marine protected areas secure,” said Tekmara founder Todd Kleperis. “The potential exists to take what we’re doing here at FIU Aquarius and expand into other parts of the world.”
This collaboration is further boosted by $1 million awarded to FIU from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for the Medina Aquarius Program instrumentation project, thanks to the leadership and support of Congressmen Mario-Diaz Balart and Carlos A. Gimenez. These funds will be used to add new oceanographic instrumentation and communications capabilities, establishing a uniquely capable observation system at Aquarius Reef Base. The data collected will be made available in real-time online, allowing anyone globally to monitor the health of the Florida Reef tract. The long-term vision of the project includes the development of a successor, Aquarius 2, and modular habitats for worldwide deployment.
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