Drones Launched in Lake Superior

In August 2022, two Saildrone uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs) were launched in Lake Superior on a 25-day mission. The USVs, which have a zero-carbon footprint and operate virtually silently, carry sensors to measure fish distribution data around the clock.

The Saildrones will enable U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) scientists to better understand the effects of large vessel engine noise on fish sampling and catchability, and provide data on rainbow smelt, an invasive prey fish species.

This is the second year of a multi-year mission in the Great Lakes. In summer 2021, two Saildrone USVs were deployed from Holland, Michigan.

For more info, visit saildrone.com.