Abstract

The glider is an autonomous, unmanned underwater vehicle utilized for gathering oceanographic data in remote locations. It offers a cost-effective solution with extended operational durations, typically lasting at least 30 days depending on sensor configurations and battery endurance. The Chilean Antarctic Institute (INACH) and the Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service of the Chilean Navy (SHOA) have approved a proposal for the acquisition of an autonomous underwater glider, funded by the Chilean Research and Development Agency (ANID) through FONDEQUIP. Equipped with a suite of sensors including CTD, oxygen sensor, fluorometer-turbidity, and ADCP, the glider will be initially deployed in Subantarctic waters of the Magellan Strait in December 2024, with subsequent deployments planned for the Antarctic region during the 2026 season. The glider will offer invaluable support to researchers participating in the Chilean Antarctic Science Program (PROCIEN) and projects focused on Antarctic oceanography, ecology of top predators, and fisheries. We welcome researchers from other Antarctic National Programs interested in collaborating on projects related to ecology and oceanography.