FAQ

Bathymetry is the science of measuring the depths of oceans, lakes, and rivers. It is used to map underwater relief and create maps of the seafloor, often called bathymetric maps.

Bathymetry is used in many applications, including marine navigation, coastal engineering, marine resource management, underwater exploration, and scientific research. It helps to understand underwater topography, identify navigational hazards, and monitor changes in marine ecosystems.

Bathymetry is carried out using specialized instruments such as Multibeam Echosounders (MBES) which send acoustic waves towards the sea floor. By measuring the return time of these waves, scientists can determine the depth of the water and the shape of the sea floor.

Hydrography is a broader discipline that includes bathymetry. While bathymetry focuses specifically on the measurement of depths, hydrography also encompasses the study of tides, currents, and physical characteristics of water, as well as the mapping of coastlines and seabeds.

The main tools used in bathymetry are acoustic sounders, such as multibeam echosounders (MBES) and singlebeam echosounders. Other technologies, such as LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) and photogrammetry, can also be used for bathymetric surveys, especially in shallow areas.

Bathymetry is essential in coastal engineering because it provides crucial information about underwater topography, necessary for the design and construction of marine structures such as ports, breakwaters, and offshore platforms. It also helps in assessing coastal erosion risks and planning coastal protection projects.

Bathymetry is used to map marine habitats, track changes in underwater ecosystems, and identify sensitive areas that require protection. This information is essential for conservation efforts, helping to protect marine species and their habitats.

The most common applications of bathymetry include seafloor mapping for navigation, scientific research on marine ecosystems, exploration of underwater natural resources, design of coastal infrastructure, and environmental monitoring.

Bathymetry resolution refers to a system’s ability to detect details on the seafloor. High resolution allows for the capture of fine details, such as complex underwater features or small objects. This is crucial for applications where precision is essential, such as underwater archaeological research or subsea pipeline exploration.

Yes, bathymetry, especially with high-resolution multibeam echosounders, can be used to detect submerged objects such as wrecks, submarine cables, or anthropogenic structures. Bathymetric surveys allow these objects to be located and their size, shape, and position to be assessed.