Depth modernization by integrating mean sea surface model, ocean tide model, and precise ship positioning

This paper presents a study on depth modernization, paralleling height modernization for land elevations. Depth modernization integrates mean sea surface (MSS) models, ocean tide models, and precise ship positioning to achieve accurate seafloor depth measurements. Conventional methods rely on tidal corrections and chart datum from temporary tide gauges, which can be challenging in regions with complex tidal patterns and inconsistent chart datums. For depth modernization, we developed (1) a hybrid MSS model using satellite altimeter data, tide gauge records, and a regional geoid model, and (2) a hydrodynamic-driven ocean model with 26 tidal constituents to determine separations between the hybrid MSS and five tidal surfaces, resulting in five ellipsoid-based surfaces analogous to a geoid model for height modernization. Precise ship positioning is demonstrated using GNSS data collected by the Legend research ship in the Pacific Ocean east of Taiwan and the Canadian spatial reference system precise point positioning toolbox. We used measurements in the Taiwan Strait to show how modern depth is implemented. Comparisons of depths in four regions from the conventional and modern methods show small (a few cm) to moderate (a few dm) differences with some variability depending on the region and equipment. Discontinuities in depths from the conventional method are analyzed. Depth modernization has significantly benefited rapid and accurate bathymetric mapping for electronic navigation charts. Future work in MSS and ocean tide models and the availability of PPP tools for depth modernization are discussed. For mapping agencies worldwide, depth modernization should be prioritized alongside height modernization to ensure rapid and accurate depth data provision.