Australian Multibeam Guidelines [Version 1.1].

Abstract

Australia’s Multibeam Guidelines were established by the AusSeabed consortium. The guidelines provide procedures mainly on survey planning, data acquisition and submission i.e. from the pre-survey planning phase to the data submission phase, off the ship. They are designed for a range of audiences, from those experienced in seafloor mapping using swath acoustic systems, non-experts who are developing mapping capabilities, and those contracting seafloor mapping surveys using swath systems.

These guidelines aim to improve interoperability, discoverability and accessibility of swath system data, and encourage improved acquisition standards to meet more user requirements. We acknowledge that to achieve such an aim, adaptation of the project might be necessary and could impact time and cost. For example, a project needing higher quality backscatter may require tighter line spacing, while a hydrographic survey for charting will need more detailed assessment and greater sounding density than for a habitat mapping project. However, in most cases, the inconvenience of varying parameters will be outweighed by the increased relevance of the data to more users.

These guidelines should be used as an overarching document, providing a minimum set of requirements for seafloor mapping activities conducted in Australian waters. These guidelines should be complemented with purpose-based requirements and associated documentation, such as hydrographic surveys, marine park monitoring, and marine infrastructure planning or installation