Astraeus Ocean Systems Wins Bellingham Angel Investors Pitch with "Uber for Ocean Intelligence"
Image: Astraeus Ocean Systems
Bellingham-based Astraeus Ocean Systems just won first prize in the Bellingham Angel Investors (BAI) Startup Pitch competition. The ocean data startup, known for its unique fleet of autonomous solar-powered vessels, won first prize and “crowd favorite” among 12 promising companies in the region. The event, designed to highlight Northwest Washington entrepreneurs, awarded a total of $10,000, of which Astraeus took home $7,000 to further its ambitious mission.
Redefining ocean data collection.
Founded in 2022, the startup aims to make real-time environmental data collection as accessible as ordering a carpool. Its CEO , Alex Parker, envisions a global network of autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) that continuously collect vital ocean data, such as water temperature and ecosystem health. Each ASV can be rapidly deployed at a lower cost than traditional methods, providing critical data on demand and for a fraction of the cost of current ocean monitoring systems. Parker describes this approach as akin to an “Uber for ocean intelligence,” allowing data to be collected precisely when and where it is needed.
Looking ahead: Testing and next steps
With the award funding, they plan to equip one of their ASVs with an advanced sensor to support environmental projects, such as tracking derelict fishing gear in Puget Sound. The company's first tests will begin later this year, with paid pilots expected to launch in early 2025. As environmental monitoring becomes increasingly important, they are poised to become a leader in sustainable and cost-effective ocean data collection, embodying the potential of technology to drive environmental stewardship.
