Buoyancy Gliders Opening New Research Opportunities in the Southern Ocean

Abstract

Abstract Polar systems are experiencing major changes that has significant implications for ocean circulation and global biogeochemistry. While these changes are accelerating, access to polar systems is decreasing as ships and logistical capabilities are declining. Autonomous underwater buoyancy gliders have proven to be robust technologies that are capable of filling sampling gaps. Gliders have also provided a more sustained presence in polar seas than ships are able. Along the West Antarctic Peninsula, one of the most rapidly warming regions on this planet, gliders have proven to be a useful tool being used by the international community to link land research stations without requiring major research vessel ship support. The gliders are capable of adaptive sampling of subsurface features not visible from satellites, sustained sampling to characterize seasonal dynamics, and they increasingly play a central role in the management of natural resources. Future challenges to expand their utility include: (A) developing robust navigation under ice, which would allow gliders to provide a sustained bridge between the research stations when ship support is declining, and (B) expanding online resources to provide the international community open access to quality data in near real time. These advances will accelerate the use of gliders to fill critical sampling gaps for these remote ocean environments.