The ONR Rough Rhino system tracked over 600 vessels of interest during the recent AMLEP operation, culminating in 24 boardings by maritime security teams. The system provided a comprehensive maritime domain awareness picture for dark and light targets.
The US research vessel R/V Roger Revelle is participating in a nine-day port call in Da Nang, Vietnam, as part of the Joint Vietnam-US Research Program. The program aims to improve forecasts on coastal ocean circulation and land-ocean interactions in the Vietnamese East Sea.
The Office of Naval Research is developing advanced weather prediction models to enhance the Navy's forecasting capability, accuracy, and safety at sea. The new models, such as TC-COAMPS, enable real-time forecasting of storms' track and strength, improving warfighting advantage and reducing fuel consumption.
The US Navy is conducting a multinational effort to clear the Baltic Sea of underwater mines, highlighting the importance of Undersea Medicine for national security. This field, designated a National Naval Responsibility, aims to protect America's undersea warriors from hazards like oxygen toxicity and decompression sickness.
The Office of Naval Research has launched an initiative to develop a web-based application, ICODE MDA, to enhance maritime domain awareness and combat piracy, drug smuggling, and other threats. The project partners with Chilean researchers to create software for automation, small-target detection, and intent detection.
The Office of Naval Research is developing a solid-state laser weapon prototype with multi-mission capabilities. The program aims to provide Sailors with a non-lethal defense against small boat threats and aerial targets.
The ONR-sponsored Flexrotor vertical takeoff and landing UAV is entering the next development phase, advancing its capability with an upgraded propulsion system. The aircraft will transition from vertical to cruising flight and land in crosswinds and high winds.
The Office of Naval Research is funding a project to reduce jet noise, which can cause hearing damage to Sailors and Marines. Eight research teams will develop noise-reduction technologies, measurement tools, and prediction models to dampen jet noise, resulting in safer environments for personnel.
The Multi-Mode Sensor Seeker (MMSS) sensor uses high-definition cameras, mid-wave infrared sensors, and laser-radar to autonomously identify small boats on the water, reducing workload for Sailors.
Researchers have successfully manufactured a full-size ship hull section made entirely from marine-grade titanium using friction stir welding. The development aims to bring titanium into future Navy ship construction, offering high strength, light weight, and corrosion-resistance.
The Navy has fired its first industry-built electromagnetic railgun prototype launcher at a test facility, starting an evaluation towards a future tactical weapon. The tests will evaluate the barrel life and structural integrity of the prototype system.
The ONR's Navy Manufacturing Technology (ManTech) program has improved manufacturing efficiency to save millions of dollars annually. By reducing product costs, the program enables warfighters to access more affordable technologies that enhance their capabilities.
The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has launched its TechSolutions program, a rapid-response science and technology initiative that addresses pressing warfighter needs. The program develops prototype technologies to support the day-to-day lives of sailors and Marines, providing innovative solutions to complex problems.
The Office of Naval Research has developed a web-based tool suite called TRACS to help first responders rapidly coordinate resources during disasters. The tool takes data from the United Nations' ReliefWeb and displays it on a map-based diagram showing the locations of various resources, such as food, shelter, and health supplies.
The Navy is testing an electromagnetic railgun prototype launcher, a long-range weapon that can fire projectiles at speeds of up to 5,600 mph. The technology has the potential to provide Sailors with multi-mission capability for tasks such as naval surface fire support and cruise missile defense.
Specialty canines showcased their explosive-detecting abilities, keeping Marines alive and focused on missions. The dogs' improved physiology, nutrition, and olfaction enabled them to detect IEDs even at full speed.
The Mission-Focused Autonomy (MFA) program utilizes collaborative tools to share information from government databases, supporting law enforcement efforts on foreign nationals intent on harming national security. MFA speeds up decision-making by providing timely and accurate information, enabling more effective allocation of assets.
The Autonomous Aerial Cargo Utility System (AACUS) is a five-year, $98 million program to develop sensors and control technologies for robotic vertical take-off and landing aircraft. AACUS will enable Marines to request autonomous cargo helicopters for rapid resupply of combat essentials with little to no input from an operator.
The FDA approved the first handheld device to detect life-threatening brain bleeding, which could be a lifesaver for Sailors and Marines. The portable Infrascanner reveals intracranial hematomas after an injury, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment.
The Ground Renewable Expeditionary ENergy System (GREENS) provides continuous power to Marines in the field, reducing the need for fuel transport and minimizing logistics expenses. Developed by ONR, GREENS is a portable, lightweight, and modular system that uses solar power to generate electricity.
The Office of Naval Research has selected 12 winners from over 125 entries in its Sponsoring Scholars in Science challenge, with grants worth up to $100,000. The finalists will implement hands-on STEM projects, such as renewable energy systems and underwater energy harvesting technologies.
The Office of Naval Research has demonstrated a new suite of information technology tools that could improve fleet operations by enabling seamless data sharing between ship systems. The technology, known as the universal gateway system, securely passes data between a ship's combat system network and its command-and-control network.
The Office of Naval Research has selected five new basic research projects for significant funding, focusing on areas such as quantum computing, sensor arrays, and materials science. The programs will receive a four-year award worth approximately $1.5 million annually.
The Office of Naval Research is exploring alternative energy sources, including fuel cell vehicles and high-efficiency trash disposal technology. The goal is to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and increase energy efficiency for the military.
Scientists successfully transitioned fundamental research in autonomy to undersea gliders, demonstrating improved decision-making capabilities without human intervention. The new algorithm enables robots to collect more information and adjust their paths autonomously.
The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has successfully tested a new precision-guided weapon prototype, known as the Low-Cost Imaging Terminal Seeker (LCITS). LCITS enables unguided rockets to automatically compute and home in on targets after launch, providing naval aviators with a new lethal capability.
The Powered Rope Ascender, developed by ONR TechSolutions, allows warfighters to ascend vertical surfaces quickly and efficiently. The compact, rechargeable battery-powered device has numerous applications in maritime security and helicopter rescue operations.
The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has released its latest science and technology strategic plan, emphasizing the importance of autonomous systems and speed-to-fleet in meeting future naval requirements. The plan also highlights initiatives to increase the talent pool of future naval scientists and engineers.
The Micro Auto Gasification System (MAGS) can reduce a standard 50-gallon bag of waste to a half-pint jar of harmless ash. Developed by the Office of Naval Research, MAGS is environmentally friendly and fuel efficient, using thermally converted energy from biomass.
A new algorithm embedded in flight control software will augment landing approaches on Navy carrier decks, reducing workload and boosting safety. The software ties the movement of the pilot's control stick to the aircraft's flight path, projecting a dotted green line over a target light.
An international research project led by ONR aims to improve long-range weather forecasts and seasonal outlooks by studying the Madden-Julian Oscillation in the Indian Ocean. The study will provide valuable insights into climate modeling and refine global climate computer models.
The HybridSil Fire/Blast coating is a game-changer for military applications, offering blast- and fire-resistance to various surfaces. It was developed by ONR scientist Dr. Roshdy George S. Barsoum and can be applied like paint, with minimal surface preparation.
Researchers are utilizing Office of Naval Research's FARSIGHT to identify and classify cancer-related cells. The technology, originally developed for mine hunting, improves accuracy and consistency in cell identification, potentially saving lives in the future.
The Office of Naval Research (ONR) is investing $1.1 million in Advanced Placement (AP) math and science courses for military families in select high schools. The program aims to provide students with opportunities to earn college credit and pursue careers in the sciences.
The Office of Naval Research is pursuing an Affordable Common Radar Architecture (ACRA) to upgrade the Navy's aging combat ship radar systems. The ACRA design features a novel architecture with two separate antennas to control cost and improve upgradeability.
The Office of Naval Research has developed a smartphone app called PASSION that allows deployed sailors to navigate, locate, and track people and assets on ships in real-time. This system provides low-cost, real-time situational awareness for enhanced navigation and force protection.
The new policy aims to prevent conflicts of interest among companies competing for business with the Office of Naval Research. It covers three categories: impaired objectivity, biased ground rules, and unequal access to non-public information, requiring companies to identify and resolve potential conflicts.
The Navy is launching its new joint tactical satellite, TacSat-4, which will bring on-the-go communications to the battlefield. The fourth-generation microsatellite enables warfighters to use handheld radios for mobile communications without downtime.
The ONR-funded Build A Bird app has been downloaded over 10,000 times a week, teaching players about flight dynamics and the Navy's commitment to K-12 STEM education. The app is part of a larger effort to engage underserved youth in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
The Joint Interagency Task Force South is installing a new software technology developed by the Office of Naval Research (ONR) to eliminate illegal drug trafficking. The Command and Control Rapid Prototype Continuum (C2RPC) system provides continuous rapid delivery of warfighter capability to support time-sensitive decision making.
The Office of Naval Research's TechSolutions Program has developed a lightweight, plug-and-play portable power system to charge specialized equipment, reducing the EOD team's burden by up to 50 pounds. The Power Management Kit provides real-time awareness of power usage and availability.
Researchers at MIT have successfully demonstrated a software tool called Deck operations Course of Action Planner (DCAP) that aims to ease interaction with autonomous systems on aircraft carriers. The tool provides automated planning, enhanced information displays, and new user interface approaches to increase efficiency and safety in ...
The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has announced significant investments in technology and education to promote student interest in the sciences. The agency is supporting various partnerships aimed at kindling student enthusiasm for STEM disciplines, with a focus on teacher training and hands-on activities.
The Navy plans to double its investment in STEM education over the next five years, aiming to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers. The initiative will increase funding to more than $100 million by 2015, with a focus on under-represented communities.
Paul Charles, a research chemist at NRL, was honored with the 2011 Vice Adm. Samuel L. Gravely Jr. Award for his efforts to promote science and technology to minority youth. He oversees the NRL summer internship program for under-represented communities, providing training opportunities and role models for over 200 students.
The Navy has awarded $10.8 million to 21 young researchers at 18 academic institutions as part of the 2011 Young Investigator Program. The program supports outstanding faculty researchers in STEM fields, with annual research grants of approximately $170,000 for three years.
The Office of Naval Research has selected 10 finalists for its Chief of Naval Research Challenge, offering each a $100,000 research grant. The recipients will apply the funds to their research areas, addressing various naval forces challenges.
The Office of Naval Research showcased various technologies to improve warfighting capabilities and reduce vessel ownership costs. The Enhanced Hybrid Electrical Drive (EHED) and Shipboard Energy Storage Module (SESM) aim to enhance fuel efficiency and ensure power system stability.
The Magnetic Energy Recovery Switch (MERS) harnesses and recycles residual magnetic power to control electrical flow, significantly reducing lighting energy consumption by 39 percent. The technology has the potential to reduce the Navy's total energy consumption from alternative sources by 40% by 2020.
Neurobiologists funded by the Office of Naval Research have discovered a potential cure for degenerative vision diseases, restoring vision in mice with congenital macular degeneration. The research has significant future implications for treating eye diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa, which affects over 2 million worldwide cases.