Advances in the field of underwater optical imaging are reviewed for the years 2005 to present. A synopsis of research and technical innovations is presented, organized in much the same way as the previous report (Kocak and Caimi, 2005). Several recent applications of novel systems are shown as examples, and trends in emerging underwater imaging research and development are briefly summarized.

Whitt et al. Future of Autonomous Ocean Observations reductions. Cost reductions could enable order-of-magnitude increases in platform operations and increase sampling resolution for a given level of investment. Energy harvesting technologies should be integral to the system design, for sensors, platforms, vehicles, and docking stations. Connections are needed between the marine energy and ocean observing communities to coordinate among funding sources, researchers, and end users. Regional teams should work with global organizations such as IOC/GOOS in governance development. International networks such as emerging glider operations (EGO) should also provide a forum for addressing governance. Networks of multiple vehicles can improve operational efficiencies and transform operational patterns. There is a need to develop operational architectures at regional and global scales to provide a backbone for active networking of autonomous platforms.

This State of Technology Report on Underwater Imaging provides a historical synopsis of underwater imaging, discusses current state of the art, and suggests future possibilities for continued advancement of the field. The history presented herein provides information assembled in a manner not found in previous reviews. Present work is grouped according to imaging methodology wherein foremost research and technical innovations of the field are highlighted, with a focus on the past five years. Trends in research and development are also discussed as they relate to emerging underwater imaging techniques and technologies.

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