Enhancing Slocum Gliders for Extended Polar Science

This paper presents the capabilities developed for Slocum gliders to enable safe operation and data collection beneath polar ice during prolonged missions. Key capabilities include surface ice detection, GPS-denied navigation using low-frequency sound sources, and contingency behaviours executed in response to unexpected events beneath sea ice. These capabilities are supported by a backseat driver control system which is developed for Slocum gliders for advanced missions. Field trials are being planned before the actual deployment of the system in Antarctica.