Central Middle School students are among those tracking a robot boat as it makes its way to Japan.
The robotics club launched the one-metre-long vessel off on a 15,000-kilometre rudderless voyage across the Pacific Ocean earlier this month.
If successful, it will be the smallest vessel ever to cross an ocean.
The uncrewed, autonomous boat, made possible through a partnership with Sailbotix, is packed with scientific sensors, and tracked and controlled via satellite through an online portal. Its launch marks the culmination of an innovative STEM learning project in which students explored ocean currents, hydrodynamics and deep-sea science. Students also played a hands-on role in assembling key components, including some of the onboard sensors.
The fibreglass boat is propelled by a rigid wing sail and relies on precise sail adjustments for directional control. Commands can be sent by satellite, and the vessel transmits hourly updates on its position and environmental conditions.
The core design was developed by Sailbotix, which specializes in micro-robotic boats for deep-ocean research and education. The school collaboration with the Greater Victoria-based technology startup鈥檚 educational program immerses students in hands-on STEM learning through real-world ocean exploration.
The late-winter launch aims to demonstrate the solar-powered vessel鈥檚 durability and ability to operate effectively in low light and rough winter conditions.
So far, the boat has travelled more than 200 km with another 4,114 km to go to reach Hawaii, the first milestone on its journey. It has already endured 13-foot waves and gale-force winds. From Hawaii, it will continue another 5,000 km to Japan, with an estimated total voyage time of seven or eight months.
A special cargo compartment carries drawings and gifts for students at a school in Kushima, Japan, who will receive the boat upon arrival.
If the mission succeeds, a live video conference will be arranged to foster a cross-cultural connection.
Track the voyage and view sensor feeds at .
