Historic England have released the second edition of Marine Geophysics Data Acquisition, Processing and Interpretation having commissioned MSDS Marine to produce it. It is the purpose of this guidance document to describe geophysical surveying techniques that can reveal information about the historic environment as might be encountered on, within and beneath the seabed around England.

Designed for commissioners, surveyors, and end users of marine geophysical survey data, this guidance addresses the complex requirements of marine archaeology. Marine geophysical data is frequently collected for a variety of purposes — from route planning and engineering to ecological research, resource assessment, and the detection of unexploded ordnance — with archaeological investigation often forming a key part of these projects. In line with the principle of “collect once, use many times,” this document highlights the importance of ensuring that survey outputs, archiving, and data accessibility meet the needs of multiple end users.

Historic England itself uses geophysical survey data to help shape management strategies for designated historic shipwrecks and to support investigations into heritage assets with potential for designation. This revised guidance defines the standards for acquiring, processing, and interpreting geophysical data to meet these aims effectively.

By presenting these technical approaches in a clear and accessible way, the second edition empowers professionals to carry out surveys with confidence and consistency. It details the full range of methods available and explains how to interpret the results to reveal valuable insights about our shared marine heritage.

The guidance was developed collaboratively, drawing on sector-wide expertise through a targeted consultation process and a series of webinars. To further support its implementation, a follow-up webinar is planned for later this year.

MSDS Marine Director, Mark James, who authored the guidance said ‘MSDS Marine have extensive experience in collecting and interpreting geophysical data for marine archaeology, and as such it has been a pleasure to be involved with this project. Our experience has made us well placed to rewrite the guidance and I look forward to seeing how it is used to help protect the marine historic environment in future.’

Stuart Churchley, from the Historic England Marine Planning Unit said: “As England accelerates towards its net zero targets, offshore infrastructure developments – such as wind farms – need to be informed by quality geophysical survey data. By building on the important work from the first (2013) edition, this updated Marine Geophysics Guidance ensures that heritage considerations are integrated into project planning from the outset. To support developer’s seabed design plans and provide the first step in affording effective protection of our marine historic environment.”

You can find the guidance online here: https://historicengland.org.uk/images-books/publications/marine-geophysics-data-acquisition-processing-interpretation/

Sign up for more information about the webinar here: https://forms.office.com/e/jvDRW6sWYJ

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