Science Saturday Ӏ Science in Motion: Operation Ocean Gliders
For the very first Science Saturday of 2026, Director Kitty Edwards of the Division of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas joined Cole Sheeley, a graduate student at the University of the Virgin Islands, to discuss the fascinating world of oceanography. Cole conducts research with Doug Wilson, Director of the UVI Ocean Glider Laboratory, and other members of their team.
The Glider team uses the G3 Slocum Glider, one of two gliders based at UVI’s lab, to conduct underwater research up to 1,000 meters below the surface. That’s more than 3,000 feet! The goal is to take oceanographic measurements of variables found in the ocean, focusing on factors such as temperature and salinity. Glider missions are a critical part of providing information about our surrounding waters and their ecosystems.
Gliders deliver real-time data about what is happening in the ocean. For example, by constantly measuring the ocean temperature, scientists can predict how strong a hurricane might be during the season. They also collect other complex data, such as acoustic recordings of marine animals in and around the areas where they are deployed. Once GPS points are set, the gliders move autonomously. Researchers follow a detailed checklist and run tests before the gliders are taken to drop-off points.
Cole explained that the gliders are modular in design, meaning they can come apart. Depending on how many sensors are used, the gliders’ length can vary. Modular pieces can be added or removed to measure different variables based on research needs. For example, an oxygen sensor can be added to gather data about the ocean’s oxygen levels.
Do you know what an Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP) does? Would you like to learn more about buoyancy and how the gliders reach incredible depths to collect data, all in the name of science? Click the link below to watch the full interview with Kitty and Cole.
Science Saturday, a monthly Facebook LIVE event, airs on the second Saturday of each month at 10 a.m. Watch the full interview on the Department of Planning and Natural Resources Facebook page or the Science Saturday YouTube playlist.
