Development of a modular probe to measure CTD and Chlorophyll a fluorescence for multipurpose oceanographic applications

The advancement of low-cost instrumentation is a critical development to ensure the longevity of ocean observing systems and the sustainability of marine environmental studies. This topic represents one of the most innovative trends in contemporary oceanographic research, aligning with the 2030 Agenda and supporting the objectives of the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS).
These instruments must be developed with a focus on modularity to serve diverse purposes, including vertical profiling, stand-alone systems, and deployment on various platforms such as buoys, Voluntary Observing Ships, and underwater vehicles. The accessibility of affordable technologies enables the establishment of extensive observational networks, facilitating the study of marine physical and biogeochemical processes through an integrated approach combining in situ measurements, predictive modeling, and remote sensing data.
This study introduces newly developed low-cost sensors and probes designed to measure key oceanographic parameters, including temperature, conductivity, chlorophyll a, and Chromophoric Dissolved Organic Matter (CDOM) fluorescence. These developments build upon the electronic redesign of the T-FLAP and subsequent technologies created within the LOSEM framework (e.g., Marcelli et al., 2015; Piermattei et al., 2018; Marcelli et al., 2021). These instruments underwent rigorous testing during multiple oceanographic surveys conducted in the Mediterranean Sea, yielding valuable insights into their performance and potential for large-scale deployment in marine research.