Acoustic and Thermographic Offshore Monitoring (ATOM) provides around-the-clock, all-weather monitoring of the surrounding airspace (i.e., rotor swept zone (RSZ), drilling rig airspace) using a multi-sensor array to detect, track, identify, and behaviorally classify bats and birds interacting with the structure. ATOM’s ability to detect and document insects adds a layer of biologically relevant data that provides new knowledge and further understanding of drivers of bat and bird activity at onshore or offshore energy infrastructure. Advanced AI tools provide preliminary data analysis (target acquisition, tracking, and initial classification). Normandeau’s wildlife experts perform high-resolution analysis (e.g., species ID, behavioral classification, blade interaction context, etc.) included in detailed project reports.
ATOM has been commercially deployed offshore on buoys, wind turbines, light towers, and oil drilling rigs. Highly weatherized, it remained functional during and after a hurricane, proving its robustness. Its design and performance have been validated in peer-reviewed studies as have the results of its deployment. ATOM provides an accurate tool to monitor wildlife interactions to meet regulatory and conservation requirements and provides high-quality biological information—thus helping both achieve profitable energy production while monitoring environmental impacts allowing informed mitigation if needed.
The offshore environment presents logistical and environmental challenges to studying wildlife. Remote sensing technology like ATOM permits 24/7 data collection of bird and bat activity offshore in all weather conditions, overcoming the many challenges with collecting data in this harsh environment.
ATOM is an array of sensors operating together to capture bird and bat activity in the nearby airspace. Sensors may include thermal cameras, visible-light cameras, bird and bat acoustics, and a VHF Motus receiver with antennas. These sensors collect a diverse range of activity data using different approaches to maximize the likelihood of detecting flying targets above the system. Each ATOM sensor configuration is custom-designed to suit the study’s purposes.
With little data on bird and bat activity offshore, it is critical to understand how behavior around energy infrastructure can affect behavior and potential mortality risks. ATOM can characterize wildlife presence and interactions in the airspace surrounding the system to understand bird, bat, and insect interactions, and detect collisions or stranding throughout the year.
ATOM can be customized with a wide range of sensors depending on the platform and the goals of the study. In addition to wind turbine platforms, ATOM can be installed on buoys, light towers, oil/gas rigs, and in terrestrial locations. Let us know your needs and we will work with you on a custom solution to meet the goals of your project.
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There are three published studies detailing results about two of the ATOM systems and configurations that have been used: one on a light tower, and the other two include multiple systems installed on offshore turbine platforms.
Client: Dominion Energy Project Highlights: Deployed Acoustic and Thermographic Offshore Monitoring (ATOM) on the...
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