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The shear immensity of the
underwater void spaces of Sistema
Zacatón make
exploring these deep hydrothermal caves a daunting task, as the limits of
human exposure in these depths have been reached. We propose to
utilize SONAR imaging technology similar to that used in the Floridian
Aquifer at Wakulla Springs. Here Bill Stone developed a tool that
was capable of imaging the cave
dimensions in great detail even at depths exceeding 100 meters.
This tool known as the Digital Wall Mapper (DWM) uses an array of 21
separate SONAR transponders and a inertial guidance system (along with
some other referencing techniques) to effectively scan the geometry of
this massive spring system. In this instance, divers were used to
"fly" the DWM though the
cave to get the images. Along with Stone, we are working to
develop a new version of this devise that is capable of withstanding the
great pressures incurred below 400 meters of water depth, and autonomously
guide itself through the water as it maps and and takes measurements.
This new instrument, DEPTHX (DEep Phreatic
THermal Explorer) has been proposed to NASA and the NSF for funding.
There are
other "over the counter" tools capable of imaging the deep sinkholes.
Simrad Offshore manufactures a sonar
scanning devise that can be lowered into the flooded depths of the
sinkholes and produce a image somewhat similar to that made by the
LADAR instrument. Experiments with
an instument like this are being planned for the next year.
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