WhaleSpotter: AI-Powered Whale Detection System Aims to Prevent Deadly Collisions
2025-04-22
Developed by scientists at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, WhaleSpotter uses AI and human verification to detect whales from ships and land-based installations. Since its 2019 trials, its capabilities have drastically improved, with over 51,000 marine mammal detections in 2024. Now partnering with Matson Navigation Company, the system is being adapted for use on large container ships to reduce whale-ship collisions. Improvements have extended detection range to 6 kilometers, aiming for zero false positives to ensure timely captain intervention. While not a panacea, WhaleSpotter is vital for protecting endangered species like the North Atlantic right whale.