An Environmental Assessment in the Strait of Sicily: Measurement and Analysis Techniques for Determining Bottom and Oceanographic Properties
Abstract
In October 1997, the EnVerse 97 shallow water acoustic experiments were jointly conducted by SACLANT Centre, TNO-FEL and DERA off the coast of Sicily, Italy. The primary goal of the experiments was to determine the seabed properties through inversion of acoustic data. Using a towed source, the inversion method is tested at different source/receiver separations in an area with a range-dependent bottom. The sources transmitted over a broad-band of frequencies (90-600 Hz) and the signals were measured on a vertical array of hydrophones. The acoustic data were continuously collected as the range between source and receiving array varied from 0.5-6 km. An extensive seismic survey was conducted along the track providing supporting information about the layered structure of the bottom as well as layer sound speeds. The oceanic conditions were assessed using current meters, satellite remote sensing, wave height measurements and casts for determining conductivity and temperature as a function of water depth. Geo-acoustic inversion results taken at different source/receiver ranges show sea-bed properties consistent with the range dependent features observed in the seismic survey data. These results indicate that shallow water bottom properties may be estimated over large areas using a towed source fixed receiver configuration.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA378115
Entities
People
- Dick Simons
- Martin Siderius
- Mirjam Snellen
- Reiner Onken
Organizations
- SACLANT ASW Research Centre