MiniMOP (Miniature Multipurpose Optical Pod)

The following proposal describes an affordable modular sensor system which can be used for tactical oceanography. The system, referred to as MiniMOP (Miniature Multipurpose Optical Pod) is teh integrated sensor package capable of measures fluorometry, luminometry, transmissiometer, salinity, tempature and water depth. The sensor package will remain module for mounting in any small AUV but developed and tested with the Lemmings bottom crawler vehicle. The MiniMOP program will leverage off the Lemmings success in the sensor, coverage and mobility technologies. No other small amphibious vehicle can operate as effectively offer tremendous advantages in clandestine performance. This proposed phase will address the integrated optical and physical sensor development by proof of concept demonstration. Initial emphasis will be on single sensor/Lemming operation however later extensions can be used for mapping large areas with multiple vehicles in a very cost effective surveys needed to construct accurate coastal models.