GEBCO Raster Files
Making GEBCO Rater Maps for PAMGuard
Raster contour maps are derived from GEBCO depth data, which can be downloaded in NetCDF format, and turned into a base image for PAMGuard to show coastlines and depth.
Raster maps are the most easily accessible now that the GEBCO contour maps are no long available (see below).
Raster maps can be created and downloaded from the BODC website in NetCDF format.
On the BODC website, DO NOT download the global grid files, Scroll down to where you can select a user defined area, hold the Shift key and use the mouse to select the area you’re interested in then place an order for the data in “2D netCDF” format.
The maps typically have about a 400m resolution, so will look a bit grainy if you zoom in.
You are also advised against making a map that is too large. Maps that are too large will be downsampled by PAMGuard, further reducing their resolution.
Once you’ve created your netCDF file, select it in the ‘Raster Files’ tab of the map options dialog.