Saildrone: Solar and wind-powered vessel sets sail to map the ocean floor

The Sail Drone Surveyor, the largest ship launched by the company, is designed to map the ocean floor and collect climate data using wind and solar power. It can operate for up to 12 months at sea and features advanced sonar equipment. The Surveyor will sail from San Francisco to Hawaii, mapping regions near seamounts. It aims to improve ocean conservation and understanding of climate change, as only 19% of the seabed is mapped to modern standards.

What powers the Sail Drone Surveyor?

• Nuclear energy

• Wind and solar energy

• Diesel engines

• Hydroelectric power

How long can the Sail Drone Surveyor remain at sea?

• 6 months

• 18 months

• 9 months

• 12 months

What percentage of the world's seabed has been mapped to modern standards?

• 19%

• 10%

• 50%

• 25%

What is the primary mission of the Sail Drone Surveyor's journey from San Francisco to Hawaii?

• To test new solar panels

• To conduct a fishing expedition

• To deliver cargo

• To map regions near seamounts

What type of data does the Surveyor collect from sea animals?

• Fins

• Blood samples

• Skin fragments, mucus, and excrement

• Feathers