Acoustic surveys using a high-resolution multibeam sonar system mounted on ROPOS are providing detailed data relating to the seafloor topography. The multibeam system is capable of resolving centimetre-resolution structure which can be used to map fine-scale geological and biological features. On-board processing of the multibeam data enables high-resolution (20cm resolution) digital elevation models (DEMs) of the seafloor to be produced immediately following data collection. This information can help plan and select sampling locations whilst at sea. Following the cruise, the multibeam data will be further processed for in-depth investigation into the geological characteristics of the study areas, and to examine biological-environmental interactions.
