From March 15 to March 25, 2026, the team of the projects TRIPLE-GNC, TRIPLE-nanoAUV 2 and TRIPLE-LifeDetect successfully conducted a field test of the nanoAUV at Lake Torneträsk, north of Abisko, Sweden. The main focus of the campaign was to evaluate the underwater vehicle’s navigation system, the interaction of hardware and software, and the integration of scientific payloads under realistic operating conditions in an ice-covered environment.
Particular attention was given to assessing the robustness and reliability of pose and attitude estimation under challenging environmental conditions. Extensive navigation sensor datasets were recorded during the campaign and will now be analyzed in detail.
For the test missions, a three-dimensional reference track was prepared beneath the ice using precisely surveyed waypoints. Visual markers installed at these points enabled accurate comparison between the nanoAUV’s estimated position and known reference values. The missions were supported by a remotely operated BlueROV equipped with a camera, allowing precise navigation along the test track.
In addition to navigation performance, hydroacoustic USBL-positioning along with data transmissions between the nanoAUV and the surface system were successfully tested. Mechanical structures, electrical systems, and the overall handling of the vehicle on and under the ice were also validated under realistic field conditions.
The Abisko Scientific Research Station of the Swedish Polar Research Secretariat served as the logistical base throughout the test period. The team benefited from excellent infrastructure, workshop facilities, and valuable on-site support. Weather and ice conditions were highly favorable, with ice thickness reaching up to 80 centimeters.
The activities attracted considerable interest not only from the research station staff, but also from local residents and tourists. In addition, a film crew from Bayerischer Rundfunk accompanied the campaign for two days while producing a documentary for ARTE. The broadcast is expected in early 2027.
Overall, the successful field test marks an important milestone in the further development of the nanoAUV. In addition to valuable technical findings, operational procedures were refined and interdisciplinary teamwork was further strengthened. The experience gained provides an important foundation for future campaigns and upcoming development steps.
| TRIPLE-GNC | RWTH Aachen, IRT TU Braunschweig, IFF Universität Bremen, CNI DFKI-RIC |
| TRIPLE-nanoAUV 2 | Universität Bremen, MARUM EvoLogics GmbH |
| TRIPLE-LifeDetect | Alfred-Wegener-Institute |