A global approach to update the bathymetric data and nautical chart datum's

Abstract

This paper presents a new concept and practical approach for defining and surveying a time-invariant bathymetry and globally consistent zero reference surface for chart datums. The recent availability of a super accurate geoid provides a solution to update the old into globally usable new. Details have also been included on how to realize this zero reference surface and use the same in real time navigation using Global Positioning System (GPS). Not to revert back to a similar situation, which we have in use of tidal surfaces, it would also be necessary to avoid the use of different regional geoids.