Evidence for spatial variability in the geoacoustic parameters of the Atlantis II seamount flanks

Key Points

• The aim is to investigate the spatial variability of geoacoustic parameters on the Atlantis II seamount flanks.
• Conducted a cruise with a near-surface airgun on a semi-circular track around the seamount.
• Recorded acoustic signals using a vertical line array of four hydrophones.
• Analyzed the first flank bounce return to study acoustic propagation patterns.
• Compared hydrophone data with numerical acoustics simulations to assess geoacoustic properties.
• Detected spatial variability in geoacoustic properties across different locations on the seamount flank.
• First flank bounce returns provided evidence of differences in acoustic behavior based on location.
• Results align with expectations from numerical simulations, validating acoustic assessment methods.

Abstract