New robot technology leads Antarctic exploration into a new epoch. It is now possible to study the underside of sea ice across large distances and explore a world previously restricted to specially trained divers only.

We’ve all heard of drones. Drones, also known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are aircraft devices that don’t require an onboard pilot. Instead, they use a ground-based controller. They have become hugely popular in the last few years, originally for recreational use. They are particularly popular with photographers, and companies like DJI Canada based make many drones that have high spec cameras on for the use of aerial photography. However, now they have also started being used more commercially, for example to inspect power lines, towers, and other tall structures like chimneys and roofs. Drones are new to science, though, and are rarely used. But it looks like that is about to change.

Splash. A Weddell seal weighing almost Continue reading Underwater drones map ice algae in Antarctica →