Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Sustainable Mobility Center aims to transform how the world moves

The new center aims to make mobility systems more sustainable and efficient by leveraging AI, autonomy, digital infrastructure, and data-driven decision-making. Stanford faculty members across five schools are affiliated with the center, which will be funded through corporate partnerships.

SourceStanford University·DateMay 18, 2026
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Sharper AI eyes for maritime safety

Researchers developed a coarse-to-fine saliency-driven maritime ship detection network to improve detection accuracy in complex scenes. The framework achieves high F1 scores and mean average precision, outperforming strong baseline detectors.

SourceJournal of Remote Sensing·JournalJournal of Remote Sensing·DateApr 28, 2026

How can science support and enable the High Seas Treaty?

A new study provides a solutions-focused pathway to implementing the High Seas Treaty, highlighting the need for enhanced data resources and sharing. The researchers identify major scientific and technical developments that can help address challenges in biodiversity monitoring and connectivity between areas.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·Journalnpj Ocean Sustainability·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 2, 2026

Here's why seafarers have little confidence in autonomous ships

A Norwegian University of Science and Technology study highlights seafarers' concerns about autonomous ships' technical safety, trust in technology, and crew competence. The researchers aim to ensure safer use of advanced technology and increase seafarers' trust in autonomy by addressing the challenges highlighted by the seafarers.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalWMU Journal of Maritime Affairs·TypeSurvey·DateMar 11, 2026
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Avoiding marine collisions with SMART-SEA

Researchers at Texas A&M University have created a system called SMART-SEA to combat marine collisions by providing seafarers with real-time guidance on how and when to maneuver their vessel. The system combines raw radar imaging data with advanced machine learning to identify stationary objects and recommend safe actions.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalProcess Safety and Environmental Protection·DateDec 4, 2025

Panama Canal may face frequent extreme water lows in coming decades

A new study found that historic droughts could become common for Gatún Lake, the main source of water for the Panama Canal locks. The study projects that water levels will decrease and increase evaporation under high-emissions scenarios.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 7, 2025
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Ships trigger high and unexpected emissions of the greenhouse gas methane

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology discovered that ship traffic triggers large methane emissions in shallow areas, including ports. The study found that cruise and container ships caused the most frequent and largest measured methane releases.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeObservational study·DateJul 3, 2025

Protected Antarctic oceanic life threatened by ships anchoring, first underwater videos show

A recent study has gathered the first video evidence of anchoring and chain damage in Antarctic waters, highlighting a critically understudied conservation issue. The research found that anchor impacts can cause localized destruction to seafloor habitats, leading to the loss of slow-growing, sessile species.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Conservation Science·TypeObservational study·DateJun 9, 2025

Explainable AI for ship navigation raises trust, decreases human error

Researchers from Osaka Metropolitan University developed an explainable AI model for ship navigation that explains the basis for its decisions and intentions using numerical values. This technology aims to increase trust among maritime workers and contribute to the realization of unmanned ships.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalApplied Ocean Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 15, 2025
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Riding the AI wave toward rapid, precise ocean simulations

Researchers developed a machine learning-powered fluid simulation model that significantly reduces computation time without compromising accuracy. The new surrogate model maintains the same level of accuracy as traditional particle-based simulations while reducing computation time from approximately 45 minutes to just three minutes.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalApplied Ocean Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 3, 2025

Aston University study reveals the illusion of ‘dazzle’ paint on World War I battleships

A new analysis of 105-year-old data found that while dazzle camouflage had some effect, the 'horizon effect' had a much greater influence on confusing enemy ships. The study, led by Aston University researchers, showed that when people looked at a ship in the distance, they significantly underestimated its direction of travel.

SourceAston University·Journali-Perception·TypeObservational study·DateMar 17, 2025

Research shows restricting flavored e-cigarettes cuts vaping rates but raises smoking rates for young adults

A recent study from the University of Missouri and Yale University found that restricting flavored e-cigarettes leads to a decrease in vaping among young adults. However, this restriction also increases traditional cigarette smoking among young adults compared to states without such restrictions.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJAMA Health Forum·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 20, 2025

Ship sliming study could enable lower costs and emissions in ocean transport

Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology developed a model to estimate biofilm growth, enabling optimal hull cleaning schedules to save on fuel consumption. Biofilm fouling can increase fuel friction by up to 18%, leading to higher emissions and consumer prices.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·Journalnpj Biofilms and Microbiomes·TypeObservational study·DateJan 17, 2025
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Staying ahead of the next pandemic: Study identifies ventilation strategies to prevent super-spreader events aboard cruise ships

A new study from the University of Surrey identifies targeted ventilation strategies as crucial to preventing super-spreader events on cruise ships. The research found that improved air circulation in crowded areas can significantly reduce airborne infection transmission risk, with CO2 levels increasing in higher occupancy spaces.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateJan 15, 2025

Bad weather led Dutch ship into Western Australian coast

New research from Flinders University suggests the Zuytdorp shipwreck was caused by a storm, not poor navigation. The authors analyzed historical records and weather patterns to support their findings.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Maritime Archaeology·TypeContent analysis·DateDec 8, 2024

Exploring the impact of offshore wind on whale deaths #ASA187

A study suggests that increased marine traffic and noise from wind farm surveys may be contributing to whale deaths. Whales died off the coast of New Jersey near proposed wind farms, leading researchers to investigate the impact of survey work on cetacean populations.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateNov 21, 2024

Fewer than 7% of global hotspots for whale-ship collisions have protection measures in place

A new study led by the University of Washington found that only about 7% of areas at highest risk for whale-ship collisions have any measures in place. The team identified high-risk regions, including coastal areas along the Mediterranean, Americas, southern Africa, and parts of Asia, where whales and ships are most likely to meet.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateNov 21, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Exploring the cost and feasibility of battery-electric ships

A recent study found that retrofitting US shipping fleet from internal combustion engines to battery-electric systems could reduce maritime CO2 equivalent emissions by 34-73% in 2035. Electrifying ships is more challenging than electrifying cars, but declining battery costs and cleaner grids make it feasible.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateOct 30, 2024

Towards zero-emissions by fuel-flexible technologies – New Finnish consortium brings cleaner solutions to marine and off-road transport

The Flexible Clean Propulsion Technologies project aims to develop innovative clean solutions for maritime transport and off-road machinery, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 100% through the use of zero- and low-carbon fuels. The consortium brings together key players in Finland and international partners to shape the future ...

SourceUniversity of Vaasa·DateOct 23, 2024
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Whale shark shipping collisions may increase as oceans warm

A new study published in Nature Climate Change predicts that global warming will lead to increased co-occurrence of whale sharks and large ships, potentially increasing the likelihood of ship strikes. The research found that some newly suitable habitats overlapped with busy shipping routes, threatening the already endangered species.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature Climate Change·DateOct 7, 2024

Liquefied natural gas carbon footprint is worse than coal

A new study by Cornell University finds that liquefied natural gas (LNG) exported from the US has a one-third larger carbon footprint than coal when considering processing and shipping. LNG's extraction, processing, transportation, and storage account for approximately half of its total greenhouse gas footprint.

SourceCornell University·JournalEnergy Science & Engineering·DateOct 3, 2024

Thanks to humans, Salish Sea waters are too noisy for resident orcas to hunt successfully

Underwater noise pollution from human activities significantly impacts the ability of orcas to hunt successfully in the Salish Sea. The study found that increased ambient noise levels, particularly around vessel propellers, interfere with echolocation behavior and hunting efforts. This hindrance affects females more than males, potenti...

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 10, 2024

Ships now spew less sulfur, but warming has sped up

A new study finds that reduced sulfur emissions from shipping industry likely contributed to nearly 20% of record-breaking 2023 warmth, while regulations also accelerated warming. Further research is needed to understand the magnitude of climate response.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 12, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Engineering: Tool predicts rogue waves up to 5 minutes in advance

A new neural network-based tool can predict the emergence of rogue waves up to five minutes into the future with 75% accuracy. The tool has been trained on 14 million sea surface elevation measurements and was able to correctly forecast rogue waves near 172 buoys in the continental US and Pacific Islands.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 18, 2024

Climate change: Thick sea ice flowing from Arctic Ocean shortening shipping season in Northwest Passage

A recent analysis found that thick sea ice flowing south from the Arctic Ocean has shortened the shipping season in several parts of the Northwest Passage between 2007 and 2021. This means the region is unlikely to become a viable alternative to traditional shipping routes despite hopes fueled by global warming.

SourceSpringer·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 11, 2024

Updated radiocarbon dates for the Greek shipwreck Kyrenia

A revised radiocarbon calibration curve for the period between 433-250 BCE has been established, allowing for improved date estimates on Greek shipwrecks. The study confirms the Kyrenia Ship's final voyage around 280 BCE, slightly later than previous estimates.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJun 26, 2024

Almonds, pottery, wood help date famed Kyrenia shipwreck

Researchers at Cornell University have used a combination of almond analysis, pottery dating, and radiocarbon dating to determine the Kyrenia shipwreck's age. The team estimated that the ship sank between 296-271 BCE, with a strong probability it occurred between 286-272 BCE.

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 26, 2024

Climate change: Reduced sulphur content in shipping fuel associated with increased maritime atmospheric warming

A modelling study found substantial reductions in atmospheric aerosols and cloud droplet number density after the IMO 2020 regulation reduced sulphur content in shipping fuel. This led to an estimated 80% increase in Earth's heat energy retained, equivalent to a significant radiative warming effect.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 30, 2024
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Most dangerous areas for whale shark-shipping vessel collisions revealed

Researchers have identified heavily used shipping lanes that pass through crucial whale shark feeding grounds, posing a threat to this endangered species. Targeted measures, such as reducing ship speed, could help minimize the impact on the shipping industry while protecting whale sharks.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 14, 2024

Millions in costs due to discharge of scrubber water into the Baltic Sea

A new study by Chalmers University of Technology finds that ship scrubber water discharges caused EUR 680 million in pollution costs between 2014 and 2022. The researchers also found that most shipping companies have already recouped their investments in scrubbers, making cheap heavy fuel oil a more lucrative option.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 7, 2024

Researchers can help shipowners achieve ambitious climate targets

A new study suggests that ammonia could be a smart and energy-efficient fuel in the race to achieve net zero in shipping. The NTNU researchers' model shows that IMO's ambitions have a strong impact on shipowners' choice of propulsion systems.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalMaritime Transport Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 16, 2024
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Proud seafarers have strong doubts about the safety of autonomous ships

Norwegian seafarers express strong doubts about the safety of autonomous ships, citing concerns about loss of job independence and reduced crew control. Researchers studied bridge officers' attitudes towards automation and found a link between professional pride and mistrust.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalWMU Journal of Maritime Affairs·TypeSurvey·DateApr 11, 2024

UMass Amherst-led team creates biofilm-resistant glass for marine environments

A UMass Amherst-led team developed biofilm-resistant glass using UV radiation, which prevents biofilm formation on surfaces in underwater environments. The technology can be used for various applications, including disinfection of transparent surfaces like windows and camera lenses.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalBiofilm·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2024

National Korea Maritime & Ocean University researchers develop a new control method that optimizes autonomous ship navigation

A team of researchers developed a time-optimal control method for autonomous ships, optimizing maneuvering performance in dynamic sea conditions. The new control system accounts for various forces affecting ship movement and can improve efficiency and safety, reducing shipping costs and carbon emissions.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalOcean Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2024
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Ammonia attracts the shipping industry, but researchers warn of its risks

A study from Chalmers University of Technology found that the production and use of ammonia as a marine fuel can lead to eutrophication, acidification, and emissions of potent greenhouse gases. Researchers warn that the pursuit of low-carbon fuels may create new environmental challenges.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalApplied Energy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 5, 2024

Fastest swimming insect could inspire uncrewed boat designs

Researchers have discovered that whirligig beetles use a lift-based thrust mechanism to achieve record-breaking speeds, challenging previous explanations of their propulsion system. This finding offers valuable insights for bio-inspired robotic ship design and uncrewed boat development.

SourceCornell University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 8, 2024

Korea Maritime & Ocean University researchers develop a new method for path-following performance of autonomous ships

Korea Maritime & Ocean University researchers have developed a new method for assessing the path-following performance of autonomous ships in adverse weather conditions. The computational fluid dynamics model can provide more accurate predictions of path-following performance and enhance safety in autonomous marine navigation.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalOcean Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 3, 2024
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Beluga whales’ calls may get drowned out by shipping noise in Alaska’s Cook Inlet

Researchers found that commercial ship noise completely masks Cook Inlet beluga whales' most commonly used calls, compromising their critical communication. The study documents the complex vocal repertoire of the population and provides a quantified measure of masking by ship noise on their communication.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·TypeObservational study·DateDec 11, 2023

Study reveals how shipwrecks are providing a refuge for marine life

A new study reveals that shipwrecks are providing a sanctuary for fish, corals, and other marine species in areas open to destructive bottom towed fishing. Marine life density is significantly higher within wreck sites than in control areas.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalMarine Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 23, 2023

AI finds formula on how to predict monster waves

Scientists at the University of Copenhagen and University of Victoria have developed an AI formula to predict rogue waves, which can split apart ships and damage oil rigs. The new knowledge can make shipping safer by identifying the likelihood of being struck by a monster wave at sea.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 20, 2023

AI can map giant icebergs from satellite images 10,000 times faster than humans

Scientists have developed an AI system that accurately maps the surface area and outline of giant icebergs in one-hundredth of a second. This technology surpasses manual interpretation methods, which can take several minutes to delineate an iceberg's outline, and offers insights into their impact on the polar environment.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalThe Cryosphere·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 8, 2023

French love letters confiscated by Britain finally read after 265 years

A team of researchers from Cambridge University has decoded over 100 French love letters written in the 18th century, revealing universal human experiences and emotional struggles. The letters were sent to sailors on a ship captured by Britain during the Seven Years' War, but never reached their recipients.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalAnnales Histoire Sciences Sociales·DateNov 6, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

How cruise ships can steer clear of viral spread

Researchers found that higher ventilation rates do not necessarily prevent the spread of airborne diseases in cruise ship cabins. The ideal ventilation strategy involves medium flow rates during occupancy and increased airflow after evacuation to minimize droplet spreading.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateOct 31, 2023

Unmanned and unbothered: autonomous intelligent oceanic exploration is upon us

The ISOOS system uses a smart carrier as the mobile base and control center, connecting multiple UAVs, USVs, and AUVs for simultaneous 3D observation of targeted regions. This enables fast mapping of ocean floor and studying submesoscale eddies, previously difficult to access due to variability in space and time.

SourceOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research (OLAR)·JournalOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research·TypeNews article·DateOct 8, 2023

Modernizing the Navy’s microgrids

The project aims to assess the operational resilience of microgrids on DoD installations and ships, using new operational resilience indexes developed by Lehigh University researcher Javad Khazaei. The team will develop a dashboard to monitor resilience indexes in real-time, providing recommendations for improving the systems.

SourceLehigh University·DateSep 19, 2023
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Marine environment at risk due to ship emissions

A new study from Chalmers University of Technology reveals that the marine environment is at risk due to ship emissions, particularly from scrubber discharge water and antifouling paint. The cumulative environmental risk in ports was found to be five and thirteen times higher than acceptable limits.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 12, 2023

Tracking whales as they cruise the Arctic

Scientists have successfully tracked fin whales using fibre-optic cables in the Norwegian Arctic archipelago of Svalbard. The system, called Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS), allows for simultaneous location and tracking of whales over an 1800 km² area with relatively low infrastructure investment.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 9, 2023