Evaluation of the NAVD 88 Using Aerogravity and Lidar Data in the Gulf of Mexico

Future Efforts

•Aerogravity must be downward continued or otherwise combined with existing surface gravity data

•Lidar data must be finalized

•Mean Dynamic Topography model developed

•The models need to be compared for mutual validation:

Geoid + MDT + Tide = lidar-obs instantaneous sea surface

•The next study area will flow from the Florida panhandle through Louisiana into Texas along the Gulf coast

•MDT issues aren’t as severe there, but terrestrial subsidence issues are very significant in Louisiana

•Proof of concept for a larger production in FY08 and beyond