UOW Researchers to Revolutionize Ocean Monitoring with Advanced AI Tools

Image: University of Wolloongong

In an exciting stride towards enhancing oceanic monitoring, researchers from the University of Wollongong's Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences have embarked on a groundbreaking project. This ambitious endeavor, funded by the Australian Geospatial-Intelligence Organisation (AGO) and administered by FrontierSI, aims to develop cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) tools for monitoring oceanic internal waves using state-of-the-art satellite imagery.

Leveraging AI for Oceanic Monitoring

Led by esteemed UOW researchers including Professor Son Lam Phung, Dr. Hoang Thanh Le, Senior Professor Gursel Alici, Distinguished Professor Willy Susilo, Senior Professor Abdesselam Bouzerdoum, and Dr. Fok Tivive, the project focuses on harnessing the potential of advanced AI algorithms to identify and map oceanic internal waves from high-resolution satellite imagery.

"It is thrilling to be a part of this project," Professor Phung asserts. "Our goal is to utilize the latest developments in image processing and deep learning to accurately locate groups of internal waves and automatically recognize their characteristics, such as wave directions and intensities."

Revolutionizing Data Analysis for Enhanced Monitoring

The outcomes of this innovative project hold the promise of revolutionizing the detection and analysis of internal waves, providing faster and more precise data crucial for safeguarding underwater operations, offshore structures, and marine environments. "The AI tools developed through this project are expected to transform the way internal waves are detected. These tools can be deployed for automated satellite image analysis and oceanographic monitoring, offering unparalleled efficiency and accuracy," Professor Phung further explains.

Nurturing Expertise and Advancing Sustainable Goals

In addition to its technological advancements, the project is set to cultivate expertise in AI and satellite image processing through the training and support of several PhD candidates at UOW. This initiative not only contributes to the next generation of experts in these critical areas but also further strengthens Australia's capabilities in the realm of advanced technology and oceanic monitoring.

This pioneering project underscores the University's unwavering commitment to high-impact research and its dedication to addressing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. By addressing Sustainable Development Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, through sustainable industrialization, innovation, and resilient infrastructure, UOW continues to lead the charge towards a more sustainable future.

As UOW researchers spearhead this transformative venture, the stage is set for a noteworthy advancement in the field of oceanic monitoring, one that promises to redefine the role of AI in safeguarding the marine environment and fortify Australia's position at the forefront of technological innovation.

Original article: https://www.uow.edu.au/media/2024/uow-researchers-to-develop-ai-tools-for-satellite-based-ocean-monitoring-.php