Von Karman Lecture

The Sounding Oceanographic Lagrangrian Observer Thermal RECharging (SOLO-TREC) autonomous underwater vehicle is the first unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) that is completely powered by renewable energy. By taking advantage of the natural temperature differences in the ocean, the vehicle employs a novel thermal recharging engine that allows for virtually indefinite ocean monitoring for climate and marine life studies, exploration and surveillance. SOLO-TREC is among the longest lasting UUV's. Since its deployment into the ocean west of Hawaii on November 30th, 2009, SOLO-TREC has successfully accomplished its mission objectives, and opened the door for future applications of this remarkable engine