Fugro partners on ‘4S’ global satellite observation seafloor mapping innovation

Fugro is participating in an EU co-funded research and innovation project to develop a remote solution for global satellite derived seafloor mapping. The 3-year project, named ‘4S’ (Satellite Seafloor Survey Suite), will develop an online cloud-based solution that will use highly automated earth observation algorithms and workflows to remotely map and monitor seafloor habitats, morphology and shallow water bathymetry. Fugro will lead the project’s business and integration actions, and their hydrographers and Geo-data specialists will evaluate the solution via several use cases around the globe.

4S will leverage artificial intelligence, physics models, and satellite and airborne data to derisk marine site characterisation activities in the shallow water zone by quickly analysing seafloor properties using less personnel and equipment. The 4S consortium includes experts from the fields of satellite data analytics, hydrography and biology, and is being led by EOMAP, the world’s leading company for optical remote sensing of aquatic environments. Other project partners include the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, QPS, Länsstyrelsen Västerbotten, CNR ISMAR, the Hydrographic Institute and Smith Warner International Ltd.

Dr. Knut Hartmann, 4S Project Coordinator and COO of EOMAP, said: “The aim of 4S is to achieve a seamless integration of satellite-data analytics into marine and coastal workflows. We’re combining recent advances in satellite sensors, data analytics and cloud infrastructure to benefit marine reporting, monitoring and surveying methods.”

Dhira Adhiwijna, Fugro’s 4S Project Manager, said: “Fugro is honoured to be part of an exciting EU innovation that could result in faster and safer Geo-data insights for our energy and infrastructure clients. Upon completion, 4S will be integrated into our high-speed hydrography offering and provide innovative solutions that will also derisk marine site characterisation activities.”

This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No. 101004221.

Fugro is the world’s leading Geo-data specialist, collecting and analysing comprehensive information about the Earth and the structures built upon it. Adopting an integrated approach that incorporates acquisition and analysis of Geo-data and related advice, Fugro provides solutions. With expertise in site characterisation and asset integrity, clients are supported in the safe, sustainable and efficient design, construction and operation of their assets throughout the full lifecycle.

Employing approximately 9,500 talented people in 61 countries, Fugro serves clients around the globe, predominantly in the energy and infrastructure industries, both offshore and onshore. In 2019, revenue amounted to EUR 1.6 billion. The company is listed on Euronext Amsterdam.