Two uncrewed surface vehicles began a 45-day sailing mission through Lake Michigan and Lake Huron on August 5, as part of a Great Lakes fishery study.

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) launched the wind-and-solar-powered drones, called Saildrone Explorers, to collect fishery data first on Lake Michigan this month, then into Lake Huron through September. According to the USGS, information collected as part of the study will help inform sustainable management of the $7 billion per year Great Lakes fishing industry, including bordering states, Tribes, and lkely the province of Ontario.

The Saildrones use acoustic, or sound, technology to gather fish distribution and density data around-the-clock.

USGS scientists will use some of the data to better understand the effects of invasive mussels and nutrient loss in the water. Other research conducted by the drones will help scientists understand the effects of large vessel engine noise on fish sampling and catchability.

The 23-foot sailboat-like drones travel at an average speed between two to six knots under wind power. They are under the constant supervision of a human pilot via satellite and navigate autonomously from prescribed waypoint to waypoint. The acoustic technology used in the study is not hazardous to people or animals and will not interfere with sonar, communications equipment or similar electronics. 

For information about USGS research on the Great Lakes, visit the USGS Great Lakes Science Center website. 

Photo: Saildrone, Inc.