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The Nippon Foundation launched the GEBCO Seabed 2030 project, which aims to create a seabed map for all the oceans. The idea is that by 2030, a detailed and accurate bottom map should be created, accessible to the public as well.
Previously, before the project started in 2016, only 6 percent were surveyed. bottom of the world’s oceans, and the data was only available to governments or business organizations.
Now, four years after the start of the project, about 19 percent have been surveyed. background.
Last year alone, about 14.5 million new barometric data were added to the GEBCO network. square meters, which is almost twice the size of Australia.
But the researchers say there is still very little data.
“It just came to our attention then. That means we still have 81 percent of the oceans to explore. That is almost double the territory of Mars,” project manager Jamie McMichael-Phillips told the BBC.
Scientists emphasize that it cannot be said that we have absolutely no understanding of areas that have not yet been explored. The data sent by space satellites has taught scientists to make certain assumptions about the bottom topography, taking into account the marks left by gravity elsewhere.
However, the new study will lead to a much more accurate and detailed lower map.
Project managers say such maps are primarily necessary for navigation and the laying of submarine cables and pipelines.
However, it will also contribute to the conservation of the fishery, since marine life tends to accumulate around seamounts. Each seabed is a point of biodiversity.
The seabed also influences the behavior of ocean currents and the vertical mixing of water.
Scientists believe this information is necessary to improve models that predict future climate change, as the oceans determine the movement of heat around the planet. And if we want to understand exactly how sea levels are rising in different parts of the world, it is essential to have good maps of the ocean floor.
“It was too early for us to decide that data should be collected at all times, both when we navigate to and from the place of interest to us,” said Antarctic Research Scientist Dr. Rob Larter.
Project managers say new acquisitions will be needed: ships and equipment of various sizes.
GEBCO photography / ocean floor exploration
For example, the British and American company Ocean Infinity has developed a fleet of robotic surface vessels called the Armada. Scientists believe that such inexpensive and unmanned machines can be very important in trying to explore the most remote and hard-to-reach areas.
“I am convinced that we will need a partnership to do this. We need the support of governments, industry, academics, philanthropists and fellow scientists. We need all of these people to come together if we want to map the ocean floor, which is extremely important and necessary for humanity, “McMichael-Phillips, project manager, told the BBC.
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