As part of the Monaco Explorations Mediterranean Missions, Cosma carried out a demonstration in the Pagasetic Gulf (Greece) to showcase a new generation of lightweight autonomous survey systems dedicated to seabed observation. The project demonstrated how innovative solutions such as those developed by Cosma can support the creation, monitoring and management of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), while facilitating knowledge transfer to MPA managers and researchers.

The objective of the project was to demonstrate an agile approach for mapping and monitoring benthic ecosystems using compact autonomous surface and underwater vehicles equipped with optical cameras and acoustic sensors, including multibeam and side-scan sonar. Survey operations were conducted at a site within the Pagasetic Gulf, producing dense, high-resolution datasets suitable for habitat mapping and ecological assessment. The optical imagery also revealed the presence of the invasive seagrass Halophila stipulacea, illustrating the value of centimetre-scale observations for the early detection and monitoring of non-native species.

Beyond data acquisition, the mission formed part of the broader Monaco Explorations programme aimed at strengthening marine protected area management across the Mediterranean. During the Volos stopover, Cosma’s technology was showcased alongside other innovative monitoring solutions to researchers and marine protected area managers, demonstrating how lightweight robotic systems can rapidly generate detailed digital twins for environmental monitoring and long-term conservation planning.

The surveys also led to the discovery of an undocumented shipwreck, which was reconstructed as a high-resolution 3D digital twin. This illustrates the ability of the technology not only to support environmental monitoring but also to document and preserve underwater cultural heritage through detailed, georeferenced digital records.

During post-processing of the survey data, an AI-assisted detection algorithm also identified a seabed UXO (Unexploded Ordnance) resembling a grenade. The finding was formally reported to the relevant Greek EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) authorities, together with its precise location and supporting imagery, illustrating the added value of high-resolution digital twins beyond ecological monitoring alone, with applications ranging from environmental management and cultural heritage documentation to maritime safety.