The transformative influence of gliders on ocean exploration is already evident. Glider missions silently cover extensive distances and depths with a wide temporal coverage (from week to months of endurance). They employ a unique propulsion system with buoyancy adjustments and battery linear movement-based navigation to perform scientific observations and collect high-resolution multidisciplinary ocean data. The acquisition of a small fleet of gliders at AZTI strengthens the existing coastal observatory, promoting interdisciplinary studies. With the focus of promoting integrated science, several missions have been performed, involving traditional sensors for hydrography and environmental monitoring and some other innovative solutions like an Imagenex 853 echosouder and a SUNA sensor for real-time nitrates monitoring. Efficient and autonomous operations make gliders suitable for enduring research initiatives over long durations and they are expected to play an important role in the coming times in both science and society in the framework of the Pasaia Glider Port.
Ibirriaga et al. (Mon,) studied this question.