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Ocean Access has initiated an exciting research project in Croatia, aiming to combine hyperspectral satellite data with in-depth measurements collected at various depths in the ocean. This integration seeks to provide new insights into critical marine phenomena, including algae blooms.

The Trondheim-based technology company, Ocean Access, plans to deploy its research buoy in Norwegian and Croatian waters to continuously collect data from different depths. These in-situ measurements will complement hyperspectral satellite data, which only covers the surface layer. By effectively "seeing beneath the surface," the project aims to create a more complete picture of the ocean environment — including deeper layers often not visible via satellite.

“The collaboration arose after a trip to Croatia, organized by the Ocean Autonomy Cluster, where we connected with several relevant partners,” says Fredrik Lilleøkdal, CTO of Ocean Access. “Two companies, LIST LABS and BlueDataB, stood out as exciting partners in the satellite data field,” he adds.

One of the Croatian partners, BluedataB, has significant experience with satellite-based remote monitoring and provides solutions for industries such as aquaculture. With Ocean Access’s technology, the project partners can now explore how continuous underwater monitoring can complement this remote sensing approach for more detailed data.

Ocean Access develops submersible data buoys for collecting ocean data. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster

Efficient Four-Month Project Timeline

Ocean Access CEO Andreas Mauritzen describes the project as a fast-paced collaboration, with a goal of delivering actionable results within just four months.

“This project has the potential to make physical monitoring more cost-effective and scalable,” says Mauritzen. “We’re also exploring possibilities for expanding this cooperation both technically and commercially.”

Part of MATIN Project

Digital innovation HUB Innovamare and Ocean Autonomy Cluster (OAC) received funding from EEA grants to establish the Croatia – Norway Marine Technology Innovation network.

Throughout the project, we have enabled companies from Croatia and Norway to collaborate on the development, testing, and validation of innovative marine technologies, with the aim of increasing joint investments in the blue economy, developing shared patents, and advancing applied research.

"This is a fantastic example of cluster effects; a cluster member that, through collaboration with a Croatian cluster, has established a cross-border partnership," says Frode Halvorsen of Ocean Autonomy Cluster.

Ocean Access is a member of the FI Ocean Space Incubator and the Ocean Autonomy Cluster.

About Ocean Access

Founded in 2020 and based in Trondheim, Norway, Ocean Access develops submersible data buoys designed for comprehensive data collection in ocean environments. Their buoys operate both underwater and at the surface, equipped with a variety of sensors that enable detailed, continuous measurements. The system minimizes maintenance costs by protecting the buoy under the surface and can transmit collected data when it rises.

The company operates out of Transittgata 14, Trondheim, and has ten employees.

Do you like to know more?

For more details about the project, please contact:

• Andreas Mauritzen, CEO and Co-Founder,
  andreas@oceanaccess.no, +47 942 57 323
• Fredrik Lilleøkdal, CTO and Co-Founder,
  fredrik@oceanaccess.no, +47 988 41 415