Performance limitations on travel time and phase data extraction for bathymetry side-scan sonars

Bathymetry side-scan sonars (BASS), using two rows of transducers and the phase measuring technique, offer a simple approach to single swath mapping sonar systems which integrate both seafloor bathymetry and imagery. This paper discusses both BASS system design and the environmental factors which influence our ability to accurately determine travel time and arrival angle-the two parameters required to determine bathymetry. The authors have recently examined bathymetric performance limitations for an upgraded GLORIA system belonging to the USGS. Theoretical GLORIA phase data are presented along with the first field data. Phase difference estimates using different phase estimation algorithms are presented