MagNav Maps Over the Oceans
Abstract
There is a strong interest in using advanced knowledge of the Earths magnetic field to support navigation for a range of operations, especially in the absence of GPS. Of particular interest is navigation over oceanic areas where terrain following or visual navigation is not possible. One approach, which has been proven in certain well controlled situations, is to make magnetic measurements from a moving platform (vehicle, ship, aircraft, etc.) and reference the measured magnetic values against a trusted magnetic map of the area. When the measured magnetic patterns match with those previously mapped, a reliable location can be determined. A key requirement for the alternative navigational operations is the availability of trusted magnetic maps and models. The purpose of this proposal is to support the development of this magnetic information in support of a range of alternative navigational operations. An area of particular strategic interest is the South China Sea. The data products and error model development will focus on two general oceanic domains: (1) shallow water continental shelf, and (2) deep water. The magnetic character of these two domains is different: shorter wavelength magnetic anomalies over the continental shelf and longer wavelengths in deep water over oceanic crust. Also, the navigational needs may vary in these two domains with more precise navigation required over a broader area in shallow, near coast areas versus general navigation within discrete corridors in deeper water areas further from shore. The final products resulting from this research are mapped magnetic variations within 3D volume to support navigational operations at a range of depths and altitudes for the focus areas. Along with this 3D specialized mapping, a relevant characterization of the mapping uncertainty will be developed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- May 08, 2020
- Source ID
- N000142012483
Entities
People
- Richard Saltus
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- Regents of the University of Colorado
- United States Navy