We are launching a huge data challenge related to Oceanic Colonization, get involved today!
Research
Introduction
I am currently a researcher who has been pursuing a startup called Stark Drones, a Michigan registered C-Corp. One of our sustainability projects is the usage of underwater wireless networks for the purpose of collecting data about our oceans. This includes phosphorous runons, e-coli data, algae blooms, and observing wave frequency as well as overall environmental health for the body of water we are monitoring.
Impact
Right now, I believe that the technology of underwater wireless networking has a lot of potential. Part of this potential can be oceanic colonization or P2P (Point 2 Point) network infrastructure that allows for interconnected tunnels underwater and above the ground "elevator" like systems. An internet of things underwater can be the newest utilization we need of software defined networking in our ecosystem. The best part is technologies like ultrasonic sensors or small sonar and optical sensors is making it more capable then ever for you to transmit uninterrupted waves under the water.
The above example video is a simple communication module that utilizes the Wio-Link. I can also utilize the Wio-Link for the actual prototypes that go in the water (with the signal converters and right circuitry soldered to it). The Wio-Link is being utilizes in a way that it connects locally and is able to generate an API or unique identifier. These prototypes can then be interconnecting in transmitting data to each other or being read outputs making it almost act like a hardware based P2P system. I have also been doing prototyping of my own PCBs as well that will include low mesh networks through UART communication modules and maybe even a Bluetooth shield.
The Challenge
The biggest challenges right now besides funding is the geolocation and environmental impact. Oceanic colonization allows us to make use of earth's more abundant resources and prevents any worry of overpopulation, land sustainability, or lack of resources. It also has highly favorable potential political impact. However, the worry is finding places sustainable enough to build artificial land or underground colonies. This is because marine life, questions regarding sea level, and how we do it in an environmentally sustainable way?