VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Malta has officially launched BLUE (Buoy for Long-term Underwater Exploration), the country’s first fixed ocean sensing platform, marking a major milestone in marine research and environmental monitoring.
Positioned 3.7 kilometers off Grand Harbour, BLUE will provide high-resolution, real-time data on marine and atmospheric conditions, helping scientists and policymakers address climate change and marine ecosystem health.
This innovative platform enhances Malta’s marine infrastructure and supports its obligations under EU directives such as the Marine Strategy Framework Directive and the Water Framework Directive.
The launch event brought together Minister Dr Miriam Dalli, University of Malta Rector Professor Alfred Vella, MEP Peter Agius, former EU Commissioner Karmenu Vella, and representatives from the Armed Forces of Malta, the Environment and Resources Authority, the Energy and Water Agency, and other key agencies.
BLUE’s advanced capabilities include sensors for atmospheric conditions (wind speed, temperature, humidity), surface monitoring (currents, waves), and deep-water analysis (salinity, oxygen, pH, CO₂ levels).
Special recognition goes to Dr. Adam Gauci, whose dedication over the past three years made BLUE a reality. His persistence has delivered a game-changing asset for Malta’s marine science and environmental stewardship.
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