
Course in Marine Robot Simulation with ROS
The Course in Marine Robot Simulation with ROS Prepares you to develop and test marine robots in simulation using ROS 2, the standard software framework in robotics. You will learn to model surface and underwater vehicles, set up
Prior Knowledge Assessment
These are the skills this programme builds. Tick the ones you already have and we will tell you which part of the syllabus is really for you.
What is the Course in Marine Robot Simulation with ROS?
The Course in Marine Robot Simulation with ROS
Prepares you to develop and test marine robots in simulation using ROS 2, the standard software framework in robotics. You will learn to model surface and underwater vehicles, set up simulators with hydrodynamic effects, waves and currents, simulate sensors such as DVLs, sonar and cameras, and program control and navigation nodes, validating your algorithms thoroughly before you take them into the water and saving time, money and equipment.
Key advantages
- A standard tool: ROS 2 underpins many of today’s robotics projects.
- Built for the sea: Hydrodynamics, waves, currents and underwater sensors.
- Learning by doing: Practical exercises with open-source software.
- From model to algorithm: Modelling, control, navigation and testing.
- Case study: Full simulation of a mission with a marine vehicle.
Programme highlights
- Master ROS 2: Work with nodes, topics and services.
- Model vehicles: Describe robots with URDF and SDF.
- Simulate the sea: Set up hydrodynamics, waves and currents.
- Program control: Implement controllers and navigation.
- Boost your career: Open doors to robotics companies, technology centres and research.
- Train to make your mistakes in the simulator and get it right at sea.
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
Introduction to ROS 2
- ROS 2 architecture
- Nodes, topics and services
- Actions and parameters
- Visualisation tools
- Organising packages
Modelling Marine Vehicles
- Describing robots with URDF and SDF
- Mass, inertia and buoyancy
- Simplified hydrodynamic models
- Thrusters and control surfaces
- Surface and underwater vehicles
Simulators and the Marine Environment
- Gazebo and open marine simulators
- Waves, currents and wind
- Bathymetry and seabed scenarios
- Simulated sensors: DVL, IMU, sonar and cameras
- Performance and realism of simulation
Control and Navigation
- PID controllers for marine vehicles
- Trajectory tracking
- Sensor fusion in ROS 2
- Waypoint navigation
- Obstacle avoidance
Testing and Project
- Designing test scenarios
- Data logging and analysis
- Automated testing
- From simulator to real vehicle
- Case study: simulating a complete mission
Study Time and Workload
300 hours of study, online and at your own pace. Move the slider to the hours a week you can really put in.
Engineers and technical graduates: who want to get started in marine robotics Software developers: who want to specialise in ROS 2 Researchers: who need simulation environments for their vehicles Marine technology company staff: who validate navigation and control algorithms Advanced students: preparing robotics projects
Academic direction and faculty
The teaching team at Navalis: working professionals who deliver and oversee the institute's programmes.








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Learning Outcomes
- 01Understand ROS 2
- 02Model marine vehicles
- 03Configure marine simulators
- 04Simulate sensors
- 05Program control and navigation
- 06Test and validate
Career Opportunities
Entry Requirements
Admissions Process
No waiting for a phone call. If your documents are complete, you can pay in the same session.
Entry profile: University studies or professional experience in engineering, computing, physics or robotics, with basic programming skills. Language: A good working level of English to follow classes and materials. Technical requirements: A computer with a stable internet connection, an up-to-date browser and a webcam for live sessions and project presentations. Admissions process: Online application, profile review and a short interview with the academic team. We confirm your start date when you enquire.
Frequently Asked Questions
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