Autosub6000: a deep diving long range AUV

With an ultimate range up to 1000 km, a maximum operating
depth of 6000 m, and a generous payload capacity,
Autosub6000 is well placed to become one of the world’s
most capable deep diving Autonomous Underwater Vehicles
(AUVs). Recently, Autosub6000 successfully completed its
first deep water engineering trials, and in September 2008,
fitted with a multibeam sonar, will carry out its first science
missions. This paper will describe how we are tackling the
design issues that specifically affect a deep diving AUV
which must be capable of operating with true autonomy,
independently of the mother ship, namely: carrying adequate
energy for long endurance and range, coping with varying
buoyancy, and maintaining accurate navigation throughout
missions lasting up to several days. Results from the recent
engineering trails are presented, and future missions and
development plans are discussed.