Bistatic bottom scattering: Model, experiments, and model/ data comparison

A model is presented for bistatic scattering from ocean sediments. It treats scattering due to both roughness of the seabed and volume inhomogeneities within the sediment. Accordingly, the scattered intensity is assumed to be a sum of two terms, one proportional to the roughness-scattering cross section and the other proportional to the volume-scattering cross section. The model is tested against data acquired as part of the Coastal Benthic Boundary Layer (CBBL) research program. As part of that program, an autonomous, circularly scanning sonar system was deployed in well-characterized regions. This sonar operated at 40 kHz, had a 5° horizontal beam, and acquired backscattering data over a 50-m radius. During part of the deployment, it operated in conjunction with a mobile receiving array so as to acquire bistatic data. The experimental apparatus and procedures are presented, and results are compared with model predictions.