Oceanography team from Scripps, at the helm, discusses coral technology at SXSW gathering

In the realm of oceanic exploration, technology is playing a significant role in shedding light on the intricate world of coral reefs. Jennifer Smith, a coral reef ecologist at the University of California San Diego's (UC San Diego) Scripps Oceanography, is leading the charge in this transformative era.

Smith is the driving force behind the 100 Island Challenge, a collaborative research initiative that aims to collect data from 100 islands worldwide. This ambitious project is made possible through a suite of high-tech tools, including 360-degree cameras, autonomous sensors, robotics, and a diver-operated underwater microscope.

The 100 Island Challenge is not just about data collection; it's about engaging local communities and educating them about the value of coral reefs. These vital ecosystems are crucial for subsistence, fisheries, tourism, and revenue generation in many island nations.

Zackery Rago, from Exposure Labs, believes that virtual reality (VR) can be a powerful tool in this mission. By immersing communities in the vibrant underwater world of coral reefs, even those located in their own backyard, Rago believes VR can inspire a sense of stewardship and drive action to protect these fragile habitats.

The use of technology in coral reef research is not just about education and conservation. It's also about giving the reef a voice and opening up opportunities for novel research. Scripps Oceanography, in collaboration with the Senckenberg Society for Nature Research, has developed technology to create high-resolution photo mosaics and 3D maps of coral reefs.

Scripps Oceanography, with its fleet of four oceanographic research vessels and Birch Aquarium at Scripps, which welcomes 500,000 visitors each year, is at the forefront of global earth science research and education. The institution is renowned for nurturing the next generation of scientific and environmental leaders through its undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programmes.

In 2018, UC San Diego led a coral tech panel at the SXSW Interactive conference, discussing the biology and ecology of corals, the evolution of imagery-based approaches in coral reef research, and the use of technology like virtual reality to educate and inspire communities to protect coral reefs.

Despite recent news about coral bleaching in the Great Barrier Reef and other areas, Smith and Rago remain optimistic about the potential for technology to help communicate science to the public and promote stewardship of the oceans. Even sceptics, like journalist Klein, who initially dismissed coral reef research due to its perceived repetitive nature, have been won over by recent advances in technology, finding hope for change and the potential to spark innovation.

In conclusion, technology is revolutionising the way we study and protect coral reefs. By providing new tools for research, education, and conservation, we are not only preserving these vital ecosystems but also fostering a culture of exploration and experimentation that will drive progress in ocean science for years to come.

Oceanography team from Scripps, at the helm, discusses coral technology at SXSW gathering