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Illuminating

Ocean innovation and access

Advancing Ocean Solutions for All

​AquaVela works at the intersection of ocean technology, global collaboration, and science-based solutions to expand who can explore, observe, and understand the ocean. We believe the future of ocean exploration and climate solutions depends on expanding access to technology, knowledge, and collaboration. AquaVela supports organizations, researchers, and innovators working to develop and deploy ocean technologies that are accessible, cost-effective, and globally relevant.

 

Interested in working together? Let's connect! 

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Our Services

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Innovation & Program Design

Designing initiatives, platforms, and programs that support early-stage ocean and climate technology development.

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Global Network Building & Convening

Creating and facilitating international communities, working groups, and collaborations across academia, nonprofits, industry, and government.

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Technical & Strategic Advisory

Providing interdisciplinary expertise spanning engineering, operations, partnerships, and innovation ecosystems.

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Accessible Ocean Solutions

Guidance on cost-effective ocean observing systems, deployment models, and inclusive technology adoption.

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About Us

Aqua Vela is an ocean technology and innovation consultancy founded by ROV pilot, explorer, and engineer Dr. Jessica Sandoval.

 

We specialize in advancing early- to mid-stage ocean technologies, building global networks, and designing programs that lower barriers to ocean observation and climate research.​

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10+

years

in ocean technology and exploration

300+

member

ocean tech community supported

​

35+

expeditions

for deep-sea exploration

Global

collaboration

across observing systems, NGOs, and research institutions

In recent news...

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Launch of AOT Community Online

Feb 2026 - As a part of the Accessible Ocean Technology (AOT) Leadership Team, we launched an online community hub for knowledge sharing.

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Deep Ocean Observing Strategy Annual Meeting

May 2025 - We hosted the virtual workshop: "Accessible Ocean Technology (AOT) for Sustained Global Impact." Organizers: Deep Ocean Observing Strategy (DOOS). 

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UN Ocean Decade - Barcelona

April 2024 - We joined a panel to address barriers and opportunities in ocean observing technologies at the UN Ocean Decade Conference Satellite Event "Technologies in Sustainable Ocean Observations." Organizers: MTS, GOOS, NOAA. [Photo: MTS]

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Oceanology - London

March 2024 - We co-moderated and presented at the EOOS Technology Forum 2024 Session "Opportunities and Challenges for Accessible Ocean Observing Technologies." Organizers: EuroGOOS, JERICO, Ifremer. [Photo: A. West]

Clients

Previous & Current Clients

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