Glossary

Deutsch: Hydrografisch / Español: Hidrográfico / Português: Hidrográfico / Français: Hydrographique / Italiano: Idrografico

Hydrographic in the maritime context refers to the science and practice of measuring and describing the physical features of bodies of water and adjacent coastal areas.

Description

Hydrographic studies are crucial for creating nautical charts, which are essential tools for navigation at sea. These studies involve the measurement of water depth (bathymetry), the mapping of seabed features, and the collection of information about tides and currents. The field of hydrography provides vital data that ensures safe navigation, supports maritime operations, enhances economic ocean uses, and aids in coastal management.

Hydrographic surveys are conducted using a variety of tools and technologies:

• Echo sounders and sonars are used to map the seafloor by sending sound waves down through the water and measuring the Time it takes for the echo to return.
• Global Positioning System (GPS) technology helps precisely locate survey vessels on the water, ensuring accurate mapping of navigational hazards.
• Remote sensing techniques, including satellite imagery and aerial photography, complement traditional ship-based survey methods, particularly in shallow or dangerous waters.

The information collected through hydrographic surveys is used by hydrographic offices around the world to create and update nautical charts and sailing directions, which are critical for commercial shipping, military operations, and recreational boating.

Application Areas

Hydrographic data is essential across various sectors within the maritime industry:

• Navigation: Ensuring safe passage for vessels by providing up-to-date charts.
• Maritime construction: Assisting in the design and implementation of structures like harbors, bridges, and offshore wind farms.
• Environmental monitoring: Understanding seabed habitats and the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems.
• Defense and security: Enabling naval operations by providing detailed maps of maritime areas.
• Resource exploration: Assisting in locating underwater resources such as minerals, oil, and gas.

Well-Known Examples

An example of hydrographic work is the surveying carried out in the aftermath of the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami. Hydrographic surveyors were crucial in mapping affected coastal zones and sea areas to ensure safe navigation and aid in reconstruction efforts.

Treatment and Risks

Hydrographic surveys face various challenges, including technological limitations in deep-sea environments, the vastness and dynamic nature of marine areas, and the need for continuous updating of charts due to changes in sea conditions and seabed formations. There is also a significant cost associated with conducting extensive hydrographic surveys.

Similar Terms

• Bathymetry
• Nautical charting
• Marine cartography

Summary

In the maritime context, hydrographic refers to the science of measuring and describing the physical features of navigable waters and adjoining coastal areas. This field is essential for safe navigation, maritime construction, environmental protection, and more, highlighting its importance in global maritime operations.

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