Assessing the Influence of Acoustic Variation on the Acquisition of Bathymetric Surveying Data

[author abstract] The field of hydrographic surveying is inherently important to achieving a true understanding of the world that underlies the vast bodies of water that cover the earth. In this study I will determine the uncertainties of depth estimates of the seafloor that relate to the survey design and sound velocity. The survey design and collection of sound velocity were all conducted of the coast of Vancouver Island, B.C. near the entrance of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The assessment will show how the change in sound velocity over time will influence the bathymetric reading, if not corrected for. The differences in bathymetric depth readings will show a correlation to the changes in sound velocity.

University of Washington School of Oceanography