Victor Vescovo and the Caladan Oceanic crew, in cooperation with KAUST, made multiple manned dives into the Red Sea. They reached the deepest point, the Suakin Trough, for the first time. The team also dove the Kebrit Deep, which is shallower but scientifically important. Why it matters: This exploration provides an opportunity to study and protect the unique resources of the Red Sea's deepest regions, furthering scientific understanding of these previously inaccessible environments.
Stanford's Robotics Laboratory, in collaboration with KAUST professors Khaled Nabil Salama and Christian Voolstra and MEKA Robotics, developed OceanOne, a bimanual underwater humanoid robot avatar with haptic feedback. OceanOne allows human pilots to explore ocean depths with high fidelity by relaying instantaneous images. The robot has two fully articulated arms and a tail section with batteries, computers, and thrusters. Why it matters: This collaboration between KAUST and Stanford highlights the increasing role of robotics and AI in deep-sea exploration, with potential applications in underwater research and resource discovery in the Red Sea and beyond.
KAUST and the Marine Technology Society (MTS) have formed the MTS Red Sea Section, the first MTS Section in the Middle East. KAUST hosted the MATE ROV Red Sea Regional competition and RobotoKAUST, sponsored by the MTS Red Sea Section. Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in the Blue Economy, and KAUST is positioning itself at the forefront of marine science and technology for the Red Sea. Why it matters: This partnership and KAUST's activities will foster marine technology development and talent growth in the region, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Blue Economy initiatives.
KAUST and Fugro N.V. have inaugurated the KAUST – Fugro Center of Excellence (CoE) for Marine Technology. Fugro will provide access to advanced technologies for data collection in previously inaccessible sites of the Red Sea. They will also establish an ROV Training Academy (ROVTA) at KAUST to train Saudi students as ROV pilots and engineers. Why it matters: This partnership will enhance KAUST's marine research capabilities, support industrial partners, and advance the development of subsea research technologies in the region.
KAUST has announced a collaboration with Ocean Aero and Shelf Subsea to enhance Red Sea research using autonomous underwater and surface vehicles (AUSVs). Ocean Aero's Triton Generation III AUSV, which can sail and submerge for long-range data collection, will be customized with sensors for KAUST's Red Sea Research Center. KAUST's CEMSE division will integrate AI and IoT features into the vehicles. Why it matters: This partnership will advance KAUST's marine research capabilities and contribute to the understanding of the Red Sea's unique environment, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and the UN's Ocean Science Decade.
Princess Hala bint Khalid bin Sultan discussed the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation's marine preservation work at KAUST's Enrichment in the Fall program. The foundation focuses on research, education, and communication to preserve marine environments locally, regionally, and globally. Key projects include a five-year research expedition across 15 countries and the Mangroves Program in Jamaican and Bahamian schools. Why it matters: This highlights the ongoing efforts and commitment within Saudi Arabia to address critical environmental challenges in marine ecosystems through research and education.
KAUST researchers studied microplastic distribution in the open ocean during a recent expedition. They found microplastics everywhere but in 100 times lower quantities than expected based on production estimates. The study found larger plastic debris at expected levels, but smaller microplastics were disappearing, suggesting they are either sinking or entering the marine food chain. Why it matters: This research highlights the urgent need to understand the fate of microplastics in marine ecosystems and their potential impact on marine life and human health.
KAUST became an organizational member of the American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS), making it the only entity in Saudi Arabia with the license to provide scientific diver training and certification. KAUST and the Saudi Water Sports & Diving Federation (SWSDF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to implement policies for scientific diving in the Kingdom. KAUST-trained divers can now dive at other member institutes, facilitating research collaborations. Why it matters: This partnership enhances KAUST's role as a hub for marine research and promotes safe scientific diving practices in Saudi Arabia.