Conference on UXO & Object Detection

Welcome to the 1st Conference on UXO & Object Detection

The 1st Conference on UXO and Object Detection will focus on geophysical and geotechnical methods for detecting UXO (unexploded ordnance) and other buried objects. This is significant because the accumulation of explosive remnants in conflict areas continues to be a severe problem in many regions of the world. Advances in near-surface geosciences have improved detection methods, making these operations safer and more effective. The conference scope includes exploring object detection which plays a crucial role in various fields, for example in windfarm projects, but also agriculture, infrastructure planning, and environmental monitoring. In the case of offshore wind developments, identifying UXOs, submerged pipelines, and other obstacles is essential for safe and efficient construction. Similarly, in agriculture and infrastructure, detecting buried objects such as cables, archaeological artifacts, or natural features like sinkholes can significantly impact planning and development efforts.

The conference will draw knowledge from EAGE’s technical community focused on drones (UAVs) to discuss how they have proven valuable tools for mapping and inspecting large areas quickly and safely. The discussion should resonate in our Naples venue as Italy still deals with unexploded remnants from World War II and has specialised teams for detecting and removing these materials.

Important Dates

ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE

1 May 2025

EARLY REGISTRATION DEADLINE

31 July 2025

REGULAR Registration Deadline

20 August 2025

Regular Registration Deadline

22 August 2023

NSG2023

3-7 September 2023

Topics

Explore the topics and submit your abstract(s) by latest 1 May 2025

Overview topics

1. Trailblazing Marine Technologies: Advanced UXO and Object Detection & Identification Equipment and Survey Techniques

1.1 Novel geophysical methods for object detection
1.2 Improving accuracy and confidence in object identification through technology
1.3 Robotic and autonomous systems for UXO and object surveys
1.4 Advances in nearshore and intertidal survey techniques for UXO and object detection

2. Data Intelligence and Interpretation in UXO and Object Detection

2.1 AI, Machine Learning and Deep Learning for automated seafloor and buried object detection, interpretation and classification
2.2 Integration of geophysical datasets for detecting buried UXOs
2.3 Seismic processing techniques for imaging buried objects
2.4 Limits of magnetic inversion techniques for ferrous object detection
2.5 Real-time UXO mapping techniques

3. UXO Management in Offshore Infrastructure Development

3.1 Navigating risks: UXO risk assessment for offshore wind farms; bottom fixed and floating
3.2 Cable route UXO challenges: Solutions in submarine developments
3.3 From detection to action: Case studies streamlining UXO clearance in marine settings

4.Regulatory Frameworks and Safety Standards

4.1 Legal and engineering requirements
4.2 Developing new methods of UXO risk elimination (disposal/detonation)
4.3 Legal landscapes: Global UXO legislation and compliance
4.4 Rejuvenation of UXO detection policies and reinterpretation of the ALARP concept for safer offshore environments

5. Advanced UXO Detection on Land, Urban and Conflict Zones

5.1 Urban UXO reconnaissance: Navigating dense urban areas
5.2 Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) applications for UXO detection in war zones
5.3 Advances in land UXO detection using geophysical methods