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.