Kongsberg Discovery Unveils EM2042 DR600 and EM2042 BNS Multibeam Echosounders for Advanced Subsea Mapping

Norwegian technology firm Kongsberg Discovery has announced the launch of two new variants of its EM2042 multibeam echosounder, designed to push the boundaries of high-precision seafloor mapping for both scientific and naval applications.

This development comes at a time of surging global demand for high-resolution hydrographic data, which is essential for oceanographic research, infrastructure management, and maritime security.

The first new model, the EM2042 DR600, is a specialized echosounder tailored for integration with deep-sea robotic platforms. It has been specifically engineered for use with:

• Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs)
• Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs)

The DR600 boasts several standout features, including an operational depth capability of up to 600 meters and a robust titanium housing for reliable subsea performance. It offers ultra-high-resolution mapping while maintaining the low power consumption necessary for the extended endurance of autonomous systems.

According to Jose Cordero, Product Manager at Kongsberg Discovery, this system enables operators to capture world-class data even when deploying autonomous platforms at significant depths. The integration of such high-end sensors into robotic carriers represents a major leap forward in subsea data collection efficiency.

These advanced systems are seeing increased deployment across a variety of sectors. They are particularly effective for the following tasks:

• Scientific expeditions and oceanographic research
• Detailed monitoring of marine ecosystems
• Mapping of previously unexplored oceanic regions
• Precise inspection of submerged industrial assets

The second innovation, the EM2042 BNS, is a reinforced version of the EM2042 designed for environments where data stability and rapid situational awareness are critical. This model is ideal for specialized vessels and subsea platforms requiring high reliability.

The BNS variant offers several key advantages for ocean monitoring and navigational stability:

• High-precision bathymetry combined with co-registered backscatter, allowing for the creation of detailed seafloor models that track topographical changes and new objects.
• Water column data processing capabilities, which assist in identifying anomalies and monitoring dynamic subsea environments.
• A wide broadband frequency range of 150–700 kHz and advanced motion stabilization to maintain accuracy on fast or unstable platforms.
• A single-cable architecture that simplifies installation and reduces complexity for compact integrations on underwater carriers.

Both models are built upon the standard EM2042 technical architecture, which is known for its seamless integration. This shared foundation includes several core technologies:

• A streamlined single-cable connection system
• Advanced 4D Motion Compensation to account for vessel movement
• Readiness for QuadSwath technology to significantly increase coverage

These features allow for significantly faster data collection and improved mapping precision across diverse oceanic conditions. This is particularly important given that less than a quarter of the world's seafloor has been accurately mapped to date.

The urgency of these developments is underscored by the current state of global hydrography. With the majority of the seabed still unmapped, the deployment of efficient, high-resolution tools is no longer just a scientific luxury but a necessity for global maritime progress.

The new systems aim to accelerate the creation of global ocean maps and support scientific research into marine ecosystems. They also serve to:

• Enhance the safety and resilience of marine infrastructure
• Expand the operational potential of autonomous underwater vehicles

Kongsberg Discovery plans to showcase these new echosounders at the upcoming Oceanology International exhibition in London. This event will provide a platform for industry experts to explore the latest advancements in subsea technology.

In a broader context, these technological milestones change how we perceive our planet. Where the deep ocean was once a silent, dark void of the unknown, humanity is now developing the tools to hear the intricate shapes and contours of the abyss.

Every sonar pulse emitted by these devices acts as a sophisticated inquiry directed at the Earth itself. Through this constant dialogue of sound and reflection, we are finally beginning to understand the hidden landscapes that lie beneath the waves.