What is SeaPerch and what is M.A.T.E?

We love underwater robotics. We channel our enthusiasm for the subject through joining teams to compete in competitions such as SeaPerch and M.A.T.E. We've told you about them before, but let's get specific. What are these competitions?

SeaPerch is a competition as well as a program. According to SeaPerch itself, they are:

... an innovative underwater robotics program that equips teachers and students with the resources they need to build an underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) in an in-school or out-of-school setting. Students build the ROV from a kit comprised of low-cost, easily accessible parts, following a curriculum that teaches basic engineering and science concepts with a marine engineering theme. The SeaPerch Program provides students with the opportunity to learn about robotics, engineering, science, and mathematics (STEM) while building an underwater ROV as part of a science and engineering technology curriculum. Throughout the project, students will learn engineering concepts, problem solving, teamwork, and technical applications.

SeaPerch is less involved as less complicated than M.A.T.E. In M.A.T.E, we use more complicated robots to complete harder tasks. We add manipulator arms and use computer software. We are more free to add our own flair to the robot. Yet, SeaPerch builds the basis to M.A.T.E. According to M.A.T.E, they are:

... a national partnership of organizations working to improve marine technical education and in this way help to prepare America’s future workforce for ocean occupations.

There are M.A.T.E competitions at different levels of difficulty. We hope to carry home first place after the competition.

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