This project has developed an actuation technology for a prototype bio-inspired, soft-bodied underwater robot capable of operating at depths of up to 200 meters with near-zero acoustic and electromagnetic noise -- ideal to blend in the environment with minimal impact on sea life, making it ideal for non-intrusive environmental monitoring.

Why 200 meters?

The layer of the seas  that extends from the surface to 200 meters is called epipelagic  (also known as “sunlight zone”). It is in this zone that most of the visible light -- and many life forms exist.