Nautics and maritime robotics are of great importance in the exploration and use of the seas and oceans. Nautical science deals with the navigation, operation and safety of water vehicles, while maritime robotics involves the use of autonomous robots in maritime environments.

Exploration of the seas and oceans is important for understanding our planet and ensuring our future well-being. The oceans cover most of the Earth's surface and influence climate, biodiversity, food supply and many other important aspects. The use of the oceans is equally important, as they are a major source for food, energy, transportation and many other economic activities. Fishing, shipping, tourism, the promotion of renewable energies such as offshore wind power, the discovery of new medicines from marine organisms and the extraction of manganese nodules are just a few examples of the various opportunities offered by the oceans.

In nautical science, knowledge of navigation techniques, seamanship and ship operation is essential in order to guide ships safely and efficiently from one point to another. Maritime robotics, on the other hand, has the potential to revolutionize ocean exploration and make various maritime tasks more efficient and safer. Autonomous underwater and surface vehicles as well as drones can be used for research purposes, environmental monitoring, search and rescue operations and the inspection of maritime facilities.

The combination of nautical science and maritime robotics makes it possible to develop innovative solutions for challenges in the maritime sector and to promote the use of the oceans in a sustainable way. Through the collaboration of nautical scientists and experts in the field of maritime robotics, we can better understand, protect and utilize the oceans. The technologies required for this (e.g. electronics, control engineering, optimization of driving dynamics) are taught in various courses at our university, and the logistical requirements for trials in a maritime environment are available.

For this reason, the NUMAR (Nautics and Maritime Robotics) working group was set up at the THM. The founders are Prof. Dr. Cathrin Schröder, Prof. Dr. Thomas Glotzbach (both from the Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology) and Prof. Dr. Dirk Meyer (Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering). All of them have many years of experience in various of the above-mentioned topics and technologies. By joining forces, the aim is to develop systems that are suitable for the mentioned application scenarios and to generate experience and knowledge. In addition, the cooperation between the participating departments is to be strengthened. Collaboration by students and cooperation with other departments are very welcome. If you are interested, please send an e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

(Text created with the help of THMGPT)