Side Scan Sonar

Side Scan Sonar is a category of sonar system that is used to efficiently create an image of large areas of the sea floor.

Side scan sonar is one of the most effective tools for underwater exploration because it can search a large area quickly and produce a detailed picture of anything on the bottom, regardless of water clarity. High resolution images are sent from the towfish to a topside computer (included with the system) for display and storage.

The system consist in three units

• towfish
• control and storage unit
• data trasmission cable

The side scan sonar is the main tool for the study of sea floor morphology and biocenotical cartography. Side-scan sonar may be used to conduct survey for marine archeology; in conjunction with seafloor samples it is able to provide an understanding of the differences in material and texture type of the seabed.