Objectif
ORION is a 3-year project aimed at the development of a seafloor modular network for scientific research and early warning of major events (e.g. tsunamis and volcanic eruptions). The network will be composed by a central station acting as a network gateway and 2 autonomous satellite nodes (network hosts) , even if its modularity allows to increase the number of nodes. The nodes will host geophysical and oceanographic sensors, in particular broad-band seismological sensors, gravity meters, on-the-shelf oceanographic instruments, and acquisition systems. The satellite nodes will be acoustically linked to the central station that will communicate with shore by means of a surface buoy and a satellite link. The network will be fully tested ill actual deep-sea conditions through a long-term pilot experiment in a significant scientific area, for which a partner will furnish the ship at no cost for the project.