This paper presents the development of OpenCHIRP, an innovative subbottom profiler (SBP) designed for high-resolution seismic reflection surveys in shallow-water marine and lacustrine environments. The instrument employs chirped (frequency- modulated) im-pulses to penetrate the first few meters of sediments below the seafloor. Key characteristics include low cost, lightweight, and low energy consumption, making it particularly suita-ble for deployment onboard Autonomous Surface Vehicles (ASVs). We discuss design, functionality, and potential applications of this innovative instrument, as well as results of the preliminary tests. All information necessary to reproduce the OpenCHIRP isare in-cluded in this paper.
Stanghellini et al. (2025) studied this question.