Development of a 30kHz Deep Towed Swath Mapping System

University Of Hawaii, Honolulu

Investigators

Abstract

This grant will allow the PI's to build a seafloor swath bathymetery and sidescan mapping system with an intermediate frequency (30 kHz). This system will be based on the design used by the Hawaii Mapping Research Group (HMRG) to construct the new DSL-120 that will be operated by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. The common technical systems and software will allow scientists and technicians to work easily with both systems. The new instrument will allow scientists to explore the ocean floor with a resolution that was previously unavailable. In particular, the instrument could be used to advance our understanding of offshore fault systems. These fault systems affect a large percentage of the U.S. population when they shift. Further understanding of these systems could be important in future efforts to minimize impacts of earthquakes. Once the instrument is constructed and tested, it will be operated as part of the University of Hawaii shared-use equipment pool.