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The Latest Information on Marine Submersible Technology, Oceanographic Research, and more.
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Interesting finds, home-built ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) progress updates, and general discussion about ROVs and West Coast marine adventures.

Unboxing Dory Dec 29, '19

Today's the day! My Chasing Dory unboxing video has been posted:

Make sure to subscribe to the channel for more videos.

And here's a photo preview from the next video, which features a bathtub test dive:

Chasing Dory ROV

Coming Soon ... Dec 6, '19

A recent Kickstarter campaign by ROV maker Chasing Innovation featured their newest — and smallest — ROV model yet, the Chasing Dory. This unit was less than half the price of other models, owing mostly to its smaller size and design considerations that reduced its engineering requirements.

Instead of a 300-foot depth like other consumer ROVs, its tether cable limits it to depths of 49 feet. Speaking of the tether, in a nod to the fun-size design for the Dory, it attaches to a floating WiFi buoy. When going to use the Dory, you toss the buoy and the Dory and the entire tether into the water. It just floats there, like a bobber.

Chasing is an established company with multiple ROV models already in their catalog, so I felt enough confidence to get in on the kickstarter. I didn't go for the Backpack reward level. I have my own ideas for how I want to carry it, so a backpack wasn't necessary.

My unit arrived today. I'll be uploading a series of videos documenting the experience and highlighting what it's like to use this tiny ROV. For now, though, here's a teaser image:

Cardboard box with the 'Chasing' logo on the side.
What is DJI cooking up? May 8, '19

DJI has updated their website with a countdown timer and a promise of something that will help you "UNLEASH YOUR OTHER SIDE".

The artwork for the teaser has a distinctly marine feel.

Underwater photograph featuring a woman in a striking pose.

(From https://www.dji.com/ca/trailer)

Could they be planning to launch an ROV? Or will it merely be a highly water resistant aerial drone?

We'll find out in 6 days.

If it's an ROV, maybe I'll be able to request a review unit? 🤔

OpenROV is now Sofar Ocean Technologies Mar 27, '19

OpenROV has merged with Spoondrift to form Sofar Ocean Technologies.

TechCrunch says that SolarCity co-founder Peter Rive is the driving force behind this merger and funding round.

Sofar currently has two main products, the Trident ROV and the Spotter ocean sensor. Not much information is available on any plans they might have to continue developing DIY ROV kits like the OpenROV 2.8.

OpenROV kits are sold out, but some parts still appear to be available on the OpenROV Store. Even the parts might not last for long, though, without an official commitment from Sofar.

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