Sensor Networking in Aquatic Environments - Experiences and New Challenges

In this paper we present the design and implemen tation of a small-scale marine sensor network. The network monitors the temperature in the Baltic Sea on different heights from the water surface down to the bottom. Unlike many other wireless sensor networks, this network contains both a wired and a wireless part. One of the major challenges is that the network is hard to access after its deployment and hence both hard- and software must be robust and reliable. We also present the design of an advanced buoy system featuring a diving unit that achieves a better vertical resolution and discuss remaining challenges of sensor networking in aquatic environments.