Solve the problem by investing in a phased array, side scanning sonar. They
are very affordable and reliable. See the Interphase 180.
Steve

"Jere Lull" wrote in message
news:2008092615455816807-jerelull@maccom...
I was considering the march of technology and the computing power many of
us have on our boats, then considered the byzantine methods the various
mapping agencies use to create our nautical charts and how out-of-date they
really are.

Has anyone seen a project to collect position and depth data automatically
and periodically upload the data to a central server? I vaguely recall
someone who mapped one or more anchorages automatically like that, and
there's another project where large and commercial ships sample and
analyze the waters they're passing through.

I would love to participate, in exchange for charts that accurately show
what's ahead of our keel.

Yeah, yeah, it's a project that would in some way require the cooperation
of the various national agencies ... Or one of the map sellers might be
interested, as it would give them an incredible edge over the other
suppliers.

--
Jere Lull
Xan-à-Deux -- Tanzer 28 #4 out of Tolchester, MD
Xan's pages: http://web.mac.com/jerelull/iWeb/Xan/
Our BVI trips & tips: http://homepage.mac.com/jerelull/BVI/