Sonali TiwaryAutonomous drones equipped with 4K cameras and AI-powered shark detection are now patrolling California beaches as part of the SharkEye program at California State University Long Beach (CSULB). But the pioneering technology faces an uncertain future: the CSULB Shark Lab’s funding is set to run out in September 2026 after a NOAA grant application was denied.
The program, led by Dr. Christopher Lowe, director of the CSULB Shark Lab, is currently operating drones at Padaro Beach and Carpinteria in Santa Barbara County. The drones fly pre-programmed patrol routes, scanning the surf zone for white sharks before beachgoers enter the water.
How SharkEye Works
Each drone is fitted with a 4K high-resolution camera and a hydrophone — an underwater microphone that detects acoustic signals from tagged sharks swimming in the area. When a tagged shark is detected or a drone’s AI identifies a potential shark shape in the water, lifeguards are alerted in real time via a linked app.
The system has been validated in partnership with Benioff Ocean Science Laboratories, and NOAA has been a key research collaborator — though its funding decision now threatens the lab’s continuity.
2028 Olympics and Future Plans
The CSULB Shark Lab had planned to deploy SharkEye technology for open-water swimming events at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, providing real-time shark monitoring at competition venues. That deployment plan is now in jeopardy without renewed funding.
Dr. Lowe has stated the lab is actively pursuing alternative funding sources, including state grants, private partnerships, and international research collaborations. The technology has also attracted interest from global media and Australian beach safety agencies, which have independently developed similar drone patrol programs.
Beach Safety Right Now
While SharkEye operates, beachgoers at Padaro and Carpinteria benefit from the added layer of drone surveillance. General beach safety guidelines remain in effect across California’s coastline: swim near lifeguard towers, avoid swimming near fishing areas, and exit the water if a shark is sighted or an alarm is sounded.