Side Scan Sonar is a device used in hydroacoustic seabed detection methods to identify the nature of the seabed and types of surface sediments, as well as to track anthropogenic objects deposited on the seabed. During operation, the device is towed behind the survey unit on an adapted cable at a depth of approximately 4-8m above the seabed in the survey area. The device operates at two frequencies: 300 and 900 kHz.
The sonar used in the survey on r/v Oceanograf is a cable towed side scan sonar (SSS) model 4200P, produced by EdgeTech, operating at two frequencies: 300 and 900 kHz with a maximum ping rate of 12 ms and 3 ms - for 300 and 900 kHz respectively. When operating at 300 kHz, the device provides a data set at a lateral range of 230 m to port and starboard, while when operating at 900 kHz - the range reaches 75 m and the image has a higher resolution. The maximum depth at which the sonar can operate is 300 m.