Mimicking Manta Rays: A Breakthrough in Marine Science and Technology

Since 2006, a team from the School of Navigation at Northwestern Polytechnical University in Xi’an has been working on developing soft-hulled underwater vehicles that resemble manta rays. These submersibles are designed to monitor and research coral reefs, including species like thorn starfish, in the South China Sea. The team has also created smaller models for educational purposes and larger ones capable of diving to greater depths and collecting more data.

To ensure the safety and effectiveness of these innovative underwater vehicles, the team has implemented measures to prevent potential threats such as being eaten by sharks or damaged by whales. They are committed to making sure that their work is successful and beneficial to marine research and conservation efforts.

The development of these soft-hulled underwater vehicles represents a significant advancement in marine research and conservation efforts. By mimicking the appearance and movements of manta rays, these vehicles can navigate through coral reefs with precision and collect valuable data. This is a promising development in the field of marine science and technology that will undoubtedly have a positive impact on our understanding of marine ecosystems.