CATUAV collaboration with the CSIC in the project MESTRAL

The main goal of the project MESTRAL is to investigate the presence of small-scale transport processes in the Alfacs Bay, and how they affect the spatial patterns of optically active constituents (sediments, phytoplankton and dissolved organic matter) and the underwater light-field variability.

Over three years the Marine Technology Unit (CMIMA / CSIC), directed by Jaume Piera, will conduct scientific surveys in order to collect a large set of data to develop a complete physical model. To obtain adequate spatial and temporal resolution of the data small robotic submarines (AUV) and simultaneously UAV systems of CATUAV will be used. The purpose of the flights is to obtain orthophotos showing the thermal behavior of the different water masses in the bay. The first flight campaign was carried out on the 7th and 8th of May.