Abstract

High resolution seafloor imaging and acoustic mapping which results in 3D bathymetric or stereo reconstructions and 2D image mosaics are data products frequently sought after by marine geologists, biologists and archaeologists. Using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) mounted imaging sensor suite consisting of stereo cameras, a multibeam sonar and a structured light laser sensor the Roman Lab produces acoustic and visual maps to centimeter level resolution. Additionally, accurate detection and spatial representation of diffuse sea floor venting allows for a greater understanding of the impact and distribution of hydrothermal venting and associated biological communities. Using the structured light laser sensor, originally developed for sub-centimeter bathymetric mapping, it is possible to detect near bottom density anomalies and turbulence, allowing for the systematic detection of active venting. Finally, a similar detection approach has been applied to data collected at a brine pool with the multibeam sonar as multiple acoustic returns indicate layers of varying acoustic impedance within the brine pool. This talk will discuss and show examples of these applications of high resolution mapping.

Presenter Bio

Clara Smart studies and develops high resolution mapping techniques at the University of Rhode Island with Dr. Chris Roman where she is working towards her PhD. Her primary focus is detecting active diffuse seafloor venting using the structured light laser imaging sensor. Additionally, she has been an going to sea with the Nautilus Exploration Program (E/V Nautilus) since 2011 as a navigator and high resolution mapping specialist. In 2013, she completed her masters at URI which formed the basis for her Ph.D. work. She also holds a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Northwestern University.

Publication Date

2-27-2015

Document Type

Presentation

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