How to Download Free Global Bathymetry Data

Step 1: Accessing the GEBCO Website

To start, open your web browser and type “GEBCO” into the search bar. Press enter, and you should see the General Bathymetric Chart of the Oceans as the first result. Click on the link to access the GEBCO homepage. Or use this link

Step 2: Navigating to the Download Section

Once the page has loaded, look for the section that mentions downloading GEBCO data. You will find options for global coverage grids as well as polar grids. Choose the option that says “Download GEBCO’s Global Grid”.

Step 3: Selecting Data Options

You will see two options for downloading data: one for global coverage and another for user-defined areas. Select the “Download data for user defined areas” option.

Step 4: Using the Application

After selecting the user-defined area, click on the application button. This will change the interface, allowing you to select specific grid versions. Ensure you select the latest version, which is currently the 2022 version.

Step 5: Selecting Your Area of Interest

To define the area you wish to download, press and hold the control key while clicking and dragging the mouse to create a box over your region of interest. You can zoom in for a better view if necessary.

Step 6: Choosing Data Formats

After selecting your area, you will need to choose the data formats. For this guide, select GeoTIFF in grid format. If you want additional visualizations, you can also download a JPEG image of the shaded relief.

Step 7: Adding to Your Basket

Now that you have selected your area and formats, click the “Add to basket” button. After that, hit the “View basket” button to review your selections.

Step 8: Downloading the Data

Once you have reviewed your selections in the basket, click the button to download your data. The download will begin processing, and within a few seconds, it will be completed.

Step 9: Extracting the Data

After the download completes, navigate to your downloads folder and extract the data. You will find the GeoTIFF image and a JPEG shaded map for visualization.

Step 10: Viewing Data in GIS Software

Open your GIS software, such as ArcGIS. Use the “Add Data” button to include the GeoTIFF image you just downloaded. You will need to classify this data into groups and apply symbology for elevation visualization.

FAQ

What is GEBCO?

GEBCO stands for the General Bathymetric Chart of the Oceans. It is a resource that provides bathymetric data for oceans worldwide.

What formats can I download the data in?

You can download GEBCO data in several formats, including GeoTIFF, NetCDF, ESRI ASCII, and more.

How can I visualize the downloaded data?

You can visualize the downloaded data using GIS software like QGIS or ArcGIS, where you can classify and apply symbology to the bathymetric data.

Is the data free to download?

Yes, the bathymetric data from GEBCO is free to download and use.