Mediterranean Sea whales are the objects of attention for a series of cameria drones deployed by the Marine Science lab EDMAKTUB, as scientists study marine animals to learn about their migration and survival.
Recent sightings include a 23-meter long fin whale swimming with her 8-meter calf. Part of that can be seen in this video:
While it's all science now, the technology could be used in future to build a new kind of whale-watching attraction, especially if the drones could find whales and direct viewing ships toward them.
The value of the drone cameras and other instruments was pointed out by the lab: “The drones are providing arial images that give us the sort of information that cannot be obtained from a boa. From a boat it’s only possible to observe the animals from above the surface of the water. With the drone, you can observe all the individuals and groups, even if they remain totally submerged.”
And, oh yes: The animals are aware they're being watched, the observers say, especially the dolphins, who turn their heads up to look at the drones. Perhaps soon they'll be demanding make-up artists.
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