Call for abstracts for the NOC’s Marine Autonomy & Technology Showcase 2018

MATS 2018 call for abstracts - closes July 15

The NOC is calling for abstract submissions for the 2018 Marine Autonomy and Technology Showcase (MATS). The deadline for submissions is 15 July.

Following on from the success of MATS 2017, this year’s event will take place from Tuesday 13 November to Thursday 15 November. MATS 2018 will primarily focus on developments and innovations in the 12 months since the last event, and will also look forward to where marine autonomous technology and exploration is heading in the next five years.

The NOC has been pioneering the development of Marine Autonomous Systems for 20 years now, developing platforms that have collected scientific data from the most challenging and hostile environments on the planet, transforming our understanding of the ocean. Building upon this expertise, MATS 2018 will feature a packed programme of speakers, technical presentations, exhibitions and networking opportunities, offering a unique insight into current projects and the latest technology, with first-hand accounts of research and development from across the marine autonomous sector.

Prof Russel Wynn, Chief Scientist (Marine Autonomous and Robotic Systems) and NOC Associate Director - Government, International and Public Engagement, said: “Marine robots now routinely operate from pole to equator and from sea surface to deep ocean, supporting a range of research, policy and industry applications. MATS has become a key event in the annual calendar for all those involved in developing and operating this new technology, providing an ideal forum for operators to exchange ideas and know-how, for potential adopters to understand current capabilities, and for existing users to scope out future developments.”

We are seeking presentations on the following themes:

Current applications

This theme will feature presentations that explore developments, deployments and innovations that have emerged within the 12 months since MATS 2017.

Aspirational applications

Under this theme we are seeking presentations from end-users of marine technologies to provide an overview of their requirements and roadmaps for the next 12 months to five years. We encourage submissions from scientific, industry, and health sector end-users.

Enabling technology

A Marine Autonomous System is comprised of its component technologies and the infrastructure around it. Under this theme we welcome abstracts on these enabling technologies including: sensors, power, communications and navigation.

Collaborative technologies

Presentations are sought that explore how fleets of marine autonomous systems can work collaboratively in swarms and networks, and how enabling technologies are underpinning innovative methods of exploring our oceans.

Security of assets

With ever-increasing autonomous deployments and remotely deployed technologies, security of data and assets is a growing concern. Presentations are sought to discuss how security of data and assets can be improved.

Presentations should be no longer than 20 minutes including questions and consist of a maximum 10 slides.

MATS2018 will also feature opportunities for exhibitors. Full details on how to get involved will be announced later in the spring.

MATS2018 - key dates

  • Abstract submissions close – 15 July 2018
  • Registration opens – September 2018
  • Keynote speakers and full event programme announced – September 2018
  • Full event programme announced – September 2018

For further information, or for an early discussion about exhibiting opportunities, email NOCevents@noc.ac.uk

Event dates: 
Tuesday 13 November 2018 - 09:30 to Thursday 15 November 2018 - 17:00