Course Resources

Materials below are open access. Some links unlock for accepted participants only.

Syllabus

Marine Robotics — based on MIT 2.017

Course syllabus, Piraeus June 2026

Available soon

PDF will be available prior to the programme start date. For reference, see the MIT 2.017 course page.

Pre-course module

An approximately two-hour online MATLAB Simulink class is provided to enrolled participants before the programme begins. The module covers the Simulink environment, block diagrams, and basic simulation of dynamic systems. Completion is strongly encouraged before arrival. Access instructions are sent with the enrolment confirmation.

Laptop and software requirements

Laptop: Windows required (Mac with Windows VM acceptable).
MATLAB and Simulink: Required. MIT provides a temporary licence if needed.
Robotics Simulink Toolchain: Full setup guide sent on enrolment confirmation.

What to bring

Laptop with charger and EU power adapter (Type C / Schuko).
Comfortable closed-toe shoes suitable for a working lab environment.
Sun protection for outdoor on-water sessions (hat, sunscreen).
Casual dress; smart-casual for the design review and certificate ceremony.

About MIT Sea Grant

MIT Sea Grant is a cooperative programme between MIT and NOAA supporting research, education, and outreach in ocean and coastal engineering. Course 1 is taught by MIT Sea Grant faculty.

Syllabus

Marine Autonomy — based on MIT 2.680

Course syllabus, Piraeus June 2026

Available soon

PDF will be available prior to the programme start date. For reference, see the MIT 2.680 course page.

Expected background skills

Aspirational, not a hard prerequisite for enrolment:

Programming: Comfortable in at least one language (Python, C++, MATLAB, or similar).
Text editor: Able to use a terminal-based or GUI text editor.
CLI: Basic command-line navigation, file operations, and process management on Linux or macOS.
Scripting: Able to write short scripts for file processing or automation.
Networking: Basic understanding of IP addresses, ports, and TCP/UDP.
Version control: Can clone a git repository, commit, and push changes.

Pre-course modules

Enrolled participants receive access to online preparatory modules approximately three weeks before the course begins. These modules cover Linux command-line fundamentals, introductory C++, and an orientation to the MOOS-IvP environment. Completion is strongly recommended, particularly for participants with limited Linux or C++ experience. Links are sent with the enrolment confirmation. (Content and availability subject to final confirmation with MIT.)

Laptop and software

Laptop: Linux or macOS required.
MOOS-IvP: Open-source. Installation guide sent on enrolment. oceanai.mit.edu/moos-ivp

About the MIT Marine Autonomy Lab

The MIT Marine Autonomy Lab (PavLab), led by Michael Benjamin, develops the MOOS-IvP autonomy software used in this course. oceanai.mit.edu/pavlab

For both courses — practical information

Weather: June in Piraeus is warm and dry. Expect 25-32 C during on-water sessions.
Power adapters: Greece uses Type C / Schuko plugs (220 V / 50 Hz). Bring an adapter if needed.
Dress code: Casual and practical for lab and on-water days. Smart-casual for the design review and certificate ceremony. No open-toe shoes in the lab.
Venue: Hellenic Naval Academy, Piraeus. Entry requires a valid passport or national ID.
Accommodation: Not included. The programme office provides a suggested accommodation list to enrolled participants.
Travel: Athens International Airport (ATH) is the nearest major airport. The Naval Academy is approximately 25 minutes from Athens city centre by metro.