[GordMay]

It appears that I spoke too soon, replying that forward-looking SONAR was of no use in avoiding sem-submerged obstacles. The March issue of “Marine News” has an interesting article on Obstacle Ovoidance Sonar.

From “FarSounder” at:
http://www.farsounder.com/

The FS-3 is FarSounder''s flagship product. This 3D forward looking sonar has been designed as a surface ship navigation device capable of detecting whales, shipping containers, and other in-water obstacles. Unlike other FLS products, the FS-3 is capable of generating a 3-dimensional depth map over its entire 90 degree field-of-view with a single ping. This system is not only capable of telling you how far away targets are but also at what range (max. 1,000 Ft.) and how deep the target is located.

Regards,
Gord