Crewless Mayflower Autonomous Ship Reaches Plymouth Rock As It Retraces Over 400 Years Old Voyage

The crewless, intuitive robotic boat that was retracing the sea voyage of the 1620 Mayflower has landed close to the Plymouth Rock.

The Mayflower Autonomous Ship had come in close contact with an escort boat on Thursday as it was approaching the Massachusetts shoreline almost over 400 years after its namesake’s historic trip had begun in England.

It was towed to the Plymouth Harbor — following the rules of the US Coast Guard for crewless vessels — and successfully docked close to a replica of the original Mayflower that had brought the Pilgrims to America.

Piloted by artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms, the 50-foot trimaran did not have a navigator, captain, or any other human on board.

Mayflower Vessel
Image for representation purpose only

The solar-powered vessel’s maiden attempt to cross the Atlantic was in 202. However, it faced technical glitches that forced it back to the home port in Plymouth, England — the same place from where the Pilgrim settlers had sailed back in 1620.

It departed from the southwest English coast in April but mechanical difficulties had diverted it to the Azores islands in Portugal first and then to Canada. It departed from Halifax in Nova Scotia on Monday for a four-day journey to Plymouth Harbor.

A nonprofit marine research firm named ProMare collaborated with IBM to build the vessel and has been using it to get data on microplastic pollution, whales, and other scientific research.

Small autonomous experimental vessels have passed the Atlantic before but researchers refer to it as the first-ever ship to do so.

The voyage’s completion means that the researchers can begin analyzing data from the ship’s journey and check the AI system’s performance, Rob High, a software executive associated with IBM and working on the project, mentioned. He added the prospect of crewless vessels navigating seas continually will make it easier to collect things marine scientists passionately care about.

References: Forbes, Tech Xplore, The Irish News

Disclaimer :
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.

Disclaimer :
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Do you have info to share with us ? Suggest a correction

About Author

Marine Insight News Network is a premier source for up-to-date, comprehensive, and insightful coverage of the maritime industry. Dedicated to offering the latest news, trends, and analyses in shipping, marine technology, regulations, and global maritime affairs, Marine Insight News Network prides itself on delivering accurate, engaging, and relevant information.

About Author

Marine Insight News Network is a premier source for up-to-date, comprehensive, and insightful coverage of the maritime industry. Dedicated to offering the latest news, trends, and analyses in shipping, marine technology, regulations, and global maritime affairs, Marine Insight News Network prides itself on delivering accurate, engaging, and relevant information.

Article Footer Banner
Article Footer Banner

Web Stories

Subscribe To Our Newsletters

By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *