Help Name a Small but Mighty Science Vessel in the Florida Keys

March 24, 2026

A small yellow autonomous surface vehicle (ASV) used by Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary scientists is back in action—and now it needs a name.

The ASV recently returned to service after NOAA Corps officer LTJG Tarah Aniya completed an extensive repair following saltwater intrusion that damaged the vehicle's internal systems. With the original manufacturer no longer in business and very little technical documentation available, bringing it back online required reverse-engineering much of the system.

Aniya cleaned corrosion from electronics, traced and mapped wiring, replaced damaged components, troubleshot software issues, and resealed the hull to help prevent future water intrusion. After testing, the vessel was once again ready for field work.

The ASV plays an important role in sanctuary science. It is used to map the seafloor, collect imagery, and support research in shallow areas where traditional dive surveys can be difficult or where vessel access is limited.

To celebrate the vehicle's return to service, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is inviting the public to suggest a name for this bright yellow vessel.

Suggested names can be submitted by email to FloridaKeys@noaa.gov and should be inspired by the ocean, science, or the Florida Keys. Have an idea? Submit it by April 1, 2026.

While small in size, the ASV supports important monitoring and mapping work across the sanctuary and helps researchers gather data efficiently in challenging marine environments.

Julie Cheon is the media coordinator for Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary