CHARACTERISTICS OF SEAMARC-II PHASE DATA

The dispersion of SeaMARC II phase difference samples appears to be a function of signal direction, range, noise level, and backscatter strength of the bottom. Field data from a lava flow area and from sedimented areas at different depths are compared. The temporal distribution of the phase difference samples was skewed and asymmetrical about the mode. The angular distribution was symmetrical about the mode with some phase wrap-around. The field data shows the presence of a complicated noise interference field. The amount of phase difference dispersion was larger than that calculated by using a simple Gaussian isotropic noise model, which may suggest an additional phase dispersion process caused by bottom roughness. The method used to produce bathymetry data from the phase difference samples was evaluated in light of the phase-difference sample distribution. © 1990 IEEE