A new approach for mobile and expandable real-time deep seafloor observation - Adaptable observation system

Although submarine cable in-line seafloor observation systems are very effective tools for real-time/long-term geo-scientific measurements, there are technological difficulties for deploying as many sensors as on land. To solve this problem, JAM-STEC developed an expandable and replaceable satellite measurement station called the adaptable observation system (AOS). The AOS is a battery operated mobile observatory connected to the backbone cable system by a 10-km long thin fiber cable to ensure real-time data recovery. The system consists of a branching system, a junction box, a fiber cable, and a battery system for a six-month operation. Installation and construction of the AOS will be conducted by a towed vehicle and an ROV. A thin fiber cable-laying system was developed and tested for practical operation. This observation system provides a chance to extend existing seafloor networks from an in-line area to a wider area.