Joan Esteba

University of Basel, University of Girona

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Joan Esteba is a rising star in underwater robotics, whose work is redefining autonomous vehicle operations and remote intervention. His primary research focuses on autonomous docking systems and hybrid vehicle architectures for deep-sea missions. Esteba's most notable contribution is the design of the **Sparus Docking Station**, a funnel-shaped, current-aware system for the non-holonomic Sparus II AUV. This innovation enables stand-alone, long-term deployments by equipping the station with sensors and batteries, allowing the vehicle to recharge and transfer data without human intervention. His work on the **OPTIHROV** project further pushes boundaries, developing an optically-linked hybrid AUV/ROV that replaces traditional tethered intervention vehicles. This system bridges the gap between autonomous navigation and real-time human control, enabling precise light intervention tasks on networked seafloor infrastructure. With his top-cited papers already accumulating citations in a short time, Esteba is establishing himself as a key figure in next-generation underwater technology, solving critical challenges in endurance, autonomy, and remote operability.