Project Description

A system for Underwater Hyperspectral Imaging, in which statistical methods are employed to correct for the inherent optical properties of the seawater column.

The UHI is an underwater push-broom scanner pointed perpendicular (90°) towards the sea floor and towed by an ROV, along with a rig of external lights. Reflectance data are recorded in lines perpendicular to the ROV’s travelling direction, as the light bounces back from the seabed and hits the scanner.

Reflectance data are noise-filtered, enhanced and geo-corrected to produce hyperspectral maps.

An important goal is to monitor changes to the conditions of certain species and habitats over time; to assess biological impact of subsea operations and develop more viable and environment-friendly procedures.