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Earth

Oceanology: Tethered antenna keeps subs in touch

24 March 2010

New Scientist. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

There’s a sub below

(Image: Brooke Ocean Technology)

ROBOTIC submarines have always had trouble when it comes to picking up GPS signals and communicating with their operators. That’s because radio signals do not travel far underwater. If the submarines do not surface regularly in order to check their position, they run the risk of drifting off-course.

This problem could now be solved, thanks to a wing-like antenna that piggybacks on small submarines. The antenna ascends to the surface on a tether as and when needed, enabling satellite communications, including GPS readings. It can even carry a camera to serve as…

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