Multi-laser Transmissometer for Ocean Optical Classification and Biofouling Detection

This research and development effort designs and tests new multi-laser transmissometer algorithms and hardware for ocean optical classification and autonomous biofouling detection. The system expands the collection of inherent optical properties and enables in-situ wavelength optimization for future optical communication links. Undersea testing succeeded and was contingent on several accomplishments, including developing robust algorithms, integrating opto-electronics within a custom chassis, and engineering a handheld-sized pressure vessel suitable for diverse field experimentation. The project verifies the feasibility of key enablers-autonomy, environmental classification, biofouling detection, and laser propagation-for remote undersea platforms with low size, weight, and power.