Wind-propelled sea drones complete 2,000-mile journey

An unmanned, wind-powered watercraft successfully navigated over 2,000 miles last month in a test of  its seaworthiness, Businessweek reported.

Developed by Saildrone, the SD1 unmanned watercraft arrived in Kaneohe, Hawaii in early November. It left San Francisco 34 days before, traveling through gale winds and storms on its way across the Pacific.

The SD1 will eventually be used as a research platform and will monitor oceanographic conditions and marine life for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The craft can be fitted with sensors and other instruments, and will use a two-way satellite to transmit data to and from Saildrone headquarters.

Saildrone has no immediate plans to market the SD1, and said the company is currently in the research and development phase.