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Articles

Number 17 (2017)

Sound Speed Manager: An open-source application to manage sound speed profiles

Submitted
June 12, 2018
Published
2017-05-30

Abstract

The execution of a modern survey using acoustic sensors cannot overlook an accurate environmental characterization of the water column. In particular, the selected sound speed profile is critical for ray tracing, while knowing the temperature and the salinity variability is crucial in the calculation of valid absorption coefficients. Built on decades of experience and feedback from hydrographic surveyors, Sound Speed Manager provides a streamlined workflow that guides the user to perform accurate processing and management of sound speed profiles. Developed following criteria of simplicity of use, robustness of results, and openness of the chosen solutions, Sound Speed Manager is a ready-for-use but customizable application, with a long-term support plan, made freely available to the hydrographic community under an open source license model.