Precision, accuracy and sources of errors in multibeam data acquisition and processing for a correct interpretation of the backscatter data (both from seafloor and water column)

Acoustic methods for seafloor mapping have been widely developed over the last decades. In particular, the development of swath bathymetry has allowed the creation of detailed maps of seabed topography and acoustic backscatter data; these data have been used to infer sediment and habitat types. So the Multi-Beam Echo Sounder (MBES) is a tool that allows getting information about bathymetric, morphological and compositional characteristics of the seabed surface. In addition to this, MBES can now also discriminate the acoustic imaging of the water mass by recording sampled reflectivity measurements along each beam. Infact new hardware and software modules for MBES have been developed, allowing the hydrographic community to exploit a series of powerful means to acquire water column backscatter. The aim of this paper is to present different surveys conducted by IAMC to show some examples of acquisition and processing and the results obtained to a correct interpretation of the data.