If you have looked behind the Maritime and Defense Technology Hub this week you will see a new visitor - the HOS Mystique. This vessel is assisting with the deployment of two large spar buoys next week offshore in collaboration with USF’s College of Marine Science and USF’s School of Geosciences. The spar buoy is designed to measure very small geodetic motions of the seafloor in order to better predict earthquakes and tsunamis.
A few years ago, a buoy was deployed in Egmont Key, and the following links provide additional explanation for their utility.
USF- Led Team Deploys Tsunami Buoy Test in Tampa Bay
USF Geoscientists Develop Technology to Improve Forecasting of Earthquakes, Tsunamis
We are a little more than a month away from an exciting Morning Sparks where we will explore our role as one of the largest innovation districts globally! Expect to learn new information on how we plan to drive greater regional economic growth and competition, act as catalysts for economic opportunities in neighboring communities, and strategically position our district for growth in competitive and sustainable ways. This will be the first SPID event held at ARK Innovation Center, so mark your calendar for Friday, August 1st.
What's next for launching rockets into space? Launching rockets from the sea. With limited land availability and significant costs, companies like Seagate Space see a game-changing solution in developing offshore launchpads. There is also a sense of urgency as other countries have included offshore infrastructure as part of their space strategy. Seagate Space and The Spaceport Company are positioned to lead the way for Florida in this new frontier.
Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) is more than just helicopters or planes; it’s the future of transportation. St. Petersburg is looking ahead into electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft that can perform tasks beyond the capabilities of traditional aviation. Think faster disaster relief response, private air taxis, and much more.