Turnkey Deep-Sea Exploration: Rapid, Non-Invasive, Large-Scale Surveys for Ocean Data

Traditional deep ocean surveys often involve multiple costly phases to locate and identify seafloor features and materials. Benthic Spectral Inc., in partnership with Busch Marine Inc., addresses this with AI-enhanced Underwater Hyperspectral Imaging (UHI) systems that provide real-time material identification across large areas, quickly and accurately, without disturbing the seabed. Sonar tells you where something is. Hyperspectral tells you what it is.

An Array of Underwater Platforms

Benthic Spectral’s flagship platforms, the Deep Ocean Surveyor (a 6,000- m towable hyperspectral survey system) and HyperCam (a 6,000-m underwater hyperspectral imaging camera), are designed for large-scale transect and site surveys. Along with the OceanScout AUV, AbyssalCam 4K imaging system, and AbyssaLite variable-temperature LED lighting, these systems allow operators to survey up to 60 linear nautical miles per day. This efficiency significantly reduces the time required for widearea mapping.

The Deep Ocean Surveyor is a versatile towed platform for rapid, continuous transect surveys. HyperCam provides high-resolution spectral data across 164 bands with AI-assisted onboard or near-real-time processing. Together, they achieve over 95% accuracy in identifying minerals, habitats, and targets, delivering geo-referenced results in a single pass. The modular design enables easy integration with ROVs, AUVs, and towed systems, supporting both broad reconnaissance and detailed site characterization.

These non-invasive technologies are well-suited for applications requiring speed and minimal environmental impact. For UXO surveys and clearance, the systems enable faster detection and mapping of metallic anomalies and ordnance. This approach reduces clearance times and lowers risks to personnel and the marine environment.

UHI provides real-time material identification. (Credit: Benthic Spectral)
UHI provides real-time material identification. (Credit: Benthic Spectral)

Fully Equipped Research Vessel

Busch Marine Inc. supports the full suite of 6,000 m-rated deployment platforms and sensors with proven operational expertise. The MPV Christina Busch, a 120-foot dynamically positioned research vessel equipped with advanced launch-and-recovery systems, modern sonar, and a reliable ROV fleet, is an ideal platform for large-scale deployment. The ABS-certified PC-1201 submersible provides complementary manned intervention, enabling Busch Marine to deliver comprehensive turnkey solutions for complex deep-ocean missions.

As a WOSB-certified company with in-house manufacturing in Michigan, Benthic Spectral offers reliable, customizable ROV and AUV survey solutions for challenging environments. Whether for mineral prospecting, environmental baseline surveys, archaeological assessments, or urgent UXO clearance, the combined capabilities of Benthic Spectral and Busch Marine deliver faster results with reduced impact. Deep Ocean. Full Spectrum. Zero Guesswork.

For more information on Benthic Spectral’s survey systems and turnkey UHI services, contact [email protected] or visit www.benthicspectral.com

For vessel charters, ROV operations, and mission support, contact Busch Marine Inc. at [email protected] or +1 (989) 798-4794

 

More Spotlights

Latest Issue:

The uncrewed marine vehicle sector has crossed a threshold. What was once a R&D tech space…

Your cON&Tent matters. Make it count.

Send us your latest corporate news, blogs or press releases.

Search