Use of a semi-submersible vessel to supplement satellite data in mapping the sub-tidal environment of Lonsdale Bight, Australia

The study was designed to identify the connection between features on the s atellite image and the sea floor in Lonsdale Eight, Victoria, Australia, an d to produce a map based on the findings. It used a semi-submersible vessel with an observation pod that can be lowered 1 m below the sea surface; thi s provides a stable platform from which spatially accurate data can be coll ected in the sub-marine environment, free from atmospheric effects. The res ults indicated a link between the depth and composition of the seabed and t he spectral values found in the associated satellite image. Hence, the semi -submersible vessel is an ideal tool for seafloor imaging in shallow waters , without the disadvantages associated with diving.