The Slocum Sentinel Glider from Teledyne Webb Research is a next-generation autonomous underwater vehicle designed for missions extending beyond a year. Increased internal volume accommodates additional battery capacity, sensors, and supporting hardware, while several external integration locations expand configuration flexibility. The platform can operate as many as eight sensors simultaneously, providing the energy and payload space needed for data-intensive oceanographic work without the same degree of power rationing associated with shorter-duration missions. Its design also supports operation across regions with changing water density, stronger currents, and geographically dispersed sampling areas.
Sentinel extends established Slocum Glider capabilities with additional energy for longer transits, broader observation zones, and sustained use of higher-powered instrumentation. Greater endurance can reduce the frequency of vessel-based launch and recovery activity, while faster boat-free transit supports access to remote operating areas. Piloting, communications, and data visualization are handled through the Slocum Fleet Mission Control software suite. Sensor, hardware, and software options available for the Slocum G3 Glider can also be used with Sentinel, allowing operators to build mission configurations around existing Slocum technologies and Teledyne Webb Research integration experience.
