|
Background
The Sea Bottom Surveys Panel emerged in 1970 as a forum that promotes the exchange of marine geophysical and
bathymetric research and survey data, and related activities of marine science. This panel is administered by NOAA's National Ocean Service and the Maritime Safety Agency of Japan
Types of Exchanges
In addition to annual activity reports presented at annual meetings, researchers exchange technical reports noting advances and
new developments, particularly those regarding data acquistioning and processing systems, including multibeam surveying and
survey ships. More recently, the focus of this program has shifted to electronic charts and application of the Global Positioning
System (GPS). The panel also conducts a very active technical personnel exchange program.
Accomplishments
Valuable information and data are readily shared. Japan and the United States have exchanged personnel and digital data to
further the development of electronic charting systems. Panel members in both countries have been extremely responsive to
problems and questions. The panel has taken field visits and technical tours to give members firsthand exposure to the latest
technologies and research finding in marine science.
In 1999 U.S. panel members spent time aboard the new Japanese hydrographic survey vessel, S/V SHOYO to participate in a survey of Boso Canyon. This vessel has state of the art hydrographic/bathymetric survey equipment, and is one of the newest vessels in its field.
At the 2000 Panel meeting, a proposal was made to jointly complete a Pacific Ocean Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC) test bed.
Benefits
The exchange of information, data, and technical personnel has been invaluable. Solutions to data collection and processing
problems have been jointly investigated, and potential shortcomings in associated systems have been avoided. Digital data
exchange formats necessary to the advancement of electronic charts will continue to be developed.
. |
