High Resolution Bathymetry and Backscatter of a High-Frequency Test Area
Abstract
LONG-TERM GOAL. Our long-term goal is to understand the processes which create and modify the sea bed in the coastal zone and to understand how seabed morphology can be studied using high-resolution swath mapping techniques (for bathymetry and backscatter). OBJECTIVES. We used our EM 3000 multibeam echosounder, a research-grade shallow-water multibeam echosounder operating at 300 kHz, to produce a high-resolution map of the sea bed bathymetry and backscatter in the High Frequency Sound Interaction in Ocean Sediments DRI (SAX99) study area. The prime study area has is about 600 m by 600 m at a water depth of 18 m. The interaction of sound with ocean floor sediments depends on many factors, including the shape of the sea floor and the distribution of roughness elements. Our survey characterized bottom topography, bottom roughness and backscatter patterns immediately prior to the emplacement of bottom equipment. We will also seek to understand the factors that cause the observed backscatter patterns by integrating our results with those produced by others at the SAX99 study area.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 30, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA629802
Entities
People
- Larry Mayer
- Roger D. Flood
Organizations
- Stony Brook University