Application of ground penetrating radar with GPS in underwater topographic survey

A method of underwater topographic survey based on ground penetrating radar (GPR) with global positioning system (GPS) was proposed. It obtained plane coordinates from GPS and elevation acquisition from GPR. The method was proposed to detect riverbed topography in the Yellow River. The radar antenna was used directly in vessel to collect underwater topography, process and analysis on obtained GPR image were carried out, and finally the interpretation result was verified by the lead pole measuring data. The experimental results prove the GPR technology can not only enhance the efficiency of underwater topographic survey, but also can significantly reduce labor intensity.