It was actually on a dive trip together that they decided the time was right to bring high-resolution
bathymetric charts to consumer-grade chartplotters.
Acoustic sounding has been in use for decades as a method to produce
bathymetric charts. Recently, echo-sounding data have been used to infer seabed properties and thus to map marine habitats.
The study area was defined using available Admiralty
bathymetric charts of the region to set the bearings and lengths of the sonar transects following the shape of the bank, covering a total area of around 125[km.sup.2].
Two detailed nineteenth century
bathymetric charts and eight detailed twentieth century
bathymetric charts of the James River between Hog Island and Newport News Point were used for computer analysis.
This activity is designed to teach about topographic maps and
bathymetric charts. Students are expected to create a topographic map from a model landform, interpret a simple topographic map, and explain the difference between topographic and bathymetric maps.
For decades,
bathymetric charts were artistically assembled from broadly spaced profiles.
A look at
bathymetric charts tacked up inside the observatory explains the scientists' concern.
Time is spent pre-trip reviewing and analyzing bottom contour
bathymetric charts on his chart plotter looking for canyons, mountains and humps that have sharp rises or drops.
When
bathymetric charts went digital, it was only a matter of time before someone cracked the code to allow customizable, anytime updates.