An AutoNaut USV has been launched alongside “Wilson,” which is the Ocean Cleanup System 001 from a non-profit organization called The Ocean Cleanup that is deploying advanced technologies to remove plastic from the world’s oceans.

While deployed, the AutoNaut USV will conduct long-term monitoring of the surrounding environmental conditions. It will also provide information on “Wilson” itself, which is currently undergoing sea trials approximately 350 nautical miles from San Francisco to test the behavior of the system.

“We are thrilled to be playing a role in Boyan Slat’s vision,” says Phil Johnston, BD at AutoNaut.

“The AutoNaut uses only wave-power for propulsion and solar energy for sensors - so these are two very elegant, renewably-powered systems working together for an environmental cause.”

Operating directly alongside The Ocean Cleanup System 001, the AutoNaut USV, which is remotely overseen by an operator at sea and a small team based on the south coast of England, is equipped with cameras on its mast and hull to provide a live-feed view of “Wilson,” both from above and below the sea surface.

The USV is also equipped with onboard sensors that measure the sea surface waves, oceanic currents, water quality and weather conditions, in an effort to ultimately provide a scientific understanding of the environment.

​If all goes well during this two-week trial, the systems will re-locate further offshore to the Great Pacific garbage patch (GPGP). The goal of the project there is to remove 50 percent of ocean plastics every five years.