Development of an Underwater Gravity Measurement System Using Autonomous Underwater Vehicle

Abstract:

Gravity survey is one of powerful methods to obtain density structure in crust, especially for exploration of underground deposits. Recent technology of autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) enables us measure gravity in underwater environment. Measurement of both gravity and gravity gradient is useful to estimate structure. From a model calculation, resolution of 0.1 mGal for gravity and 10 Etoves (E) for gradient measurement is needed for detection of seafloor deposits. From these objectives and specification, we have developed an underwater gravity measurement system for exploration below a seafloor using an AUV. For the gravimeter system, a gravimeter is mounted on a levelling mechanism to keep vertical. Depth rating of the system is 4,200 m. We confirmed that our gravity measurement system has an accuracy of less than 0.04 mGal on a land experiment. The gradiometer has two identical gravimeter aligned vertically 44 cm apart. Difference between two gravimeters is calculated for gravity gradient and a levelling system is also used to keep vertical. We estimate accuracy of 10 E from background noise spectra. We chose AUV Urashima belonging to JAMSTEC, because stable navigation is possible. All the power is supplied from the Urashima and acoustic communication system enables real-time monitoring of the system. The first observation was carried out in September 2012 in Sagami-Bay, Japan. The Urashima made round trip along a single profile. We succeeded in obtaining gravity data and other data for compensation. Information to measure gravity gradient is also obtained. After the data processing, our gravity system is estimated to have accuracy of 0.1 mGal. In August 2014, we carried out the second gravity survey using our system in Izena caldera, the middle Okinawa Trough, where seafloor deposits had been found. The Urashima was navigated on 15 profiles in the survey area at constant speed and depth. We obtained the data from both the gravimeter and gradiometer with good quality for all the profiles. Because the profiles were laid within the survey area, a gravity anomaly map was obtained. We have a plan to carry out a third observation using our system in August 2015. A purpose of the third observation is to obtain spatially higher-resolution image of the Izena caldera.