National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) successfully tests indigenously developed Floating LiDAR Buoy System off Muttom, Tamil Nadu.

Key facts

• The National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) conducted the successful sea trial of an indigenous Floating LiDAR Buoy System off the coast of Muttom in Tamil Nadu.
• The buoy integrates a buoyant platform with Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology to measure wind speed and direction profiles up to 300 metres above sea level.
• The system will enhance Indian Navy operational effectiveness in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) by improving weather-ocean situational awareness and maritime-domain awareness.
• The buoy supports coordination with the Coast Guard and other agencies under the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) framework for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR).
• The high-resolution offshore wind data will aid cyclone tracking, storm intensity forecasts, marine safety advisories, and offshore wind resource assessment for renewable energy development.
• Engineering challenges of constant buoy motion and power management were addressed through advanced motion compensation algorithms and energy-efficient battery systems.
• Real-time data transmission from remote offshore locations is achieved via satellite links and compression techniques.
• The project aligns with Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives to promote domestic innovation and self-reliance in ocean technologies.