Portuguese Student Innovators Explore Ocean Engineering at OOI

A team of young innovators and their professor from Colégio Valsassina in Portugal recently stopped by Ocean Observatories Initiative (OOI) during their prize trip to the United States earned after winning the 2024–2025 Atlantic Junior Award. Their award-winning project centered on designing a low-flying aircraft capable of collecting coastal and ocean data, a concept that impressed judges and highlighted how engineering can support marine science.

During their visit to the OOI facilities at the Land Ocean Sensors and Observing Systems (LOSOS) lab, the students got an inside look at how OOI engineers build and maintain the coastal and global observing systems operating across the world’s oceans. Project Scientist Jim Edson showcased how OOI data is being used to support scientific investigations over the ocean. The tour also included hands-on demonstrations and conversations about instrument design, power systems, data delivery, and the challenges of long-term operations at sea.

Bridgewater State University played a key role in facilitating the visit, enabled by the Luso-American Development Foundation, helping ensure the students’ U.S. experience showcased both academic and engineering perspectives.

Lead Principal Investigator (PI) of OOI James Edson speaks to visiting students at LOSOS. © Viriato “Vinny” de Macedo, Bridgewater State University

Lead Principal Investigator (PI) of OOI James Edson speaks to visiting students at LOSOS. © Viriato “Vinny” de Macedo, Bridgewater State University

© Viriato “Vinny” de Macedo, Bridgewater State University