Data Interpretation and Visualization of Bathymetric Survey: Lessons Learned from the Sagea Program

Abstract

Bathymetric surveys play a crucial role in understanding and mapping the underwater topography of oceans, lakes, and other water bodies. With the increasing availability of advanced technologies and data collection techniques, interpreting and visualizing bathymetric data have become integral aspects of successful survey campaigns. This paper presents the findings and lessons learned from the Sagea program, a comprehensive study focused on data interpretation and visualization in bathymetric surveying. The Sagea program employed state-of-the-art data acquisition methods, including multibeam sonar systems and satellite imagery, to collect high-resolution bathymetric data over a large coastal area. The paper highlights the challenges encountered during the data interpretation phase, such as noise reduction, data integration, and accurate depth estimation. Various algorithms and techniques were utilized to address these challenges, leading to significant improvements in data quality and interpretability. Furthermore, the paper discusses the visualization strategies employed in the Sagea program to effectively communicate the bathymetric information to stakeholders and decision-makers. It explores the utilization of 3D modeling, color mapping, and interactive visualization tools to enhance the understanding of underwater topography. The lessons learned from the visualization process provide valuable insights for future bathymetric survey projects. The results of the Sagea program demonstrate the importance of robust data interpretation and visualization techniques in extracting meaningful insights from complex bathymetric datasets. By addressing challenges related to data quality and employing advanced visualization methods, the program successfully facilitated accurate mapping of the coastal area, enabling informed decision-making in various domains, such as marine resource management, navigation, and environmental monitoring. This paper concludes with recommendations for practitioners involved in bathymetric surveying, emphasizing the significance of incorporating effective data interpretation and visualization strategies into survey protocols. By learning from the experiences and lessons gained through the Sagea program, future projects can enhance their survey outcomes, contribute to scientific knowledge, and promote sustainable utilization of aquatic environments