2025 International Remote Sensing Training Program: Dr. Peter Ifju and Bathy-drone

We had the opportunity to join a fascinating field demonstration at the University of Florida—right beside one of its beautiful campus ponds.

Dr. Peter Ifju from the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering introduced the Bathy-drone, an innovative remote sensing system that combines UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) technology with autonomous bathymetric surveying. In this system, a UAV tows an unpowered watercraft equipped with side-scan sonar, guiding it along a pre-programmed route to enable efficient and accurate underwater terrain mapping.

This cutting-edge integration of aerial and aquatic sensing technologies is advancing environmental monitoring in complex or sensitive areas.

We thank Dr. Ifju and the UF team for sharing this inspiring innovation in action!