Self-study — MBES Bathymetric Data Collection using Drones (MBES-1)
Enterprise and agriculture models are quoted per configuration — payload, training and AMC included. We reply the same working day.
Not sure it's the right one? WhatsApp a drone expert or call +91 70225 26509
MBES-1 is SPH Engineering's self-study course on collecting multibeam bathymetric data with a drone and the EchoNIMBUS-MBES payload. It is for surveyors and drone teams adding water-body mapping. HobiTech coordinates enrolment in India.
How it works
- After successful payment, the course is unlocked for your account in the Academy of SPH Engineering platform.
- Once enrolled, you can finish at your own pace.
- After passing the course exam, you receive a certificate from SPH Engineering that can be shared on LinkedIn.
What will you learn in MBES-1?
SPH Engineering states that after completing the course you will be able to run multibeam bathymetric surveys independently and with confidence, from simple lake transects to complex missions along irregular shorelines.
The course focuses on 3 parts of the job:
- Mission planning for multibeam surveys over water
- Mission execution with the drone and payload
- Data verification of the recorded survey data
MBES-1 does not cover post-processing of bathymetric data in third-party hydrographic software. Processing is taught in the next course, MBES-2 trainer-led, which uses BeamworX.
Who is MBES-1 for?
SPH Engineering lists 4 groups of learners:
- Hydrographic and land surveyors adding UAV-based bathymetry to their toolkit
- Drone service providers expanding into water-body mapping and inspection
- Engineers and technicians who monitor reservoirs, ports, rivers and coastal infrastructure
- Survey teams already using UgCS who are adopting the EchoNIMBUS-MBES payload
Basic drone piloting knowledge and familiarity with UgCS fundamentals are recommended. The course is not intended for complete beginners with no UAV experience. If you need the UgCS basics first, see our UgCS training page.
Which equipment does the course relate to?
The course is built around the EchoNIMBUS-MBES multibeam echo sounder. On SPH Engineering's echo sounder technology page, EchoNIMBUS-MBES is listed at 240 kHz with a range of 0.5 to 50 m. SPH lists compatible drones including the DJI M400, M350 and M300, and the Inspired Flight IF1200A and IF800.
The system uses SPH's SkyHub on-board computer as a datalogger, with UgCS for mission planning and flight control. Related products in our store:
- SkyHub on-board computer hardware
- SkyHub software package for echo sounder
- BeamworX Suite for multibeam processing
- All sensors in our bathymetry collection
If you use a single-beam echo sounder instead, the matching course is BATHY-1 self-study.
Where is multibeam drone bathymetry used?
SPH Engineering names water depth mapping, dredging planning and monitoring, and tailings storage facility (TSF) monitoring as uses of its echo sounder system. SPH notes that a drone allows measurements in shallow, hazardous or inaccessible waters. The course audience reflects this: reservoirs, ports, rivers and coastal infrastructure are all listed by SPH.
Why enrol through HobiTech?
HobiTech is an authorised SPH Engineering partner based in Bengaluru. The course is delivered by SPH Engineering, and HobiTech coordinates enrolment for customers in India. Every order comes with a GST invoice. See our bathymetry training page and the full training and certification page. To test your skills formally afterwards, see the MBES Bathymetry practical exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MBES-1 self-paced?
Yes. The course is unlocked in the SPH Engineering Academy after payment, and you finish it at your own pace.
Do I get a certificate?
Yes. After passing the course exam, you receive a certificate from SPH Engineering that can be shared on LinkedIn.
Does MBES-1 teach data processing?
No. It covers mission planning, execution and data verification. Multibeam processing in BeamworX is covered in MBES-2.
Can a complete beginner take MBES-1?
SPH Engineering says the course is not intended for complete beginners with no UAV experience. Basic piloting skills and UgCS fundamentals are recommended.
Which echo sounder is the course for?
The EchoNIMBUS-MBES multibeam payload from SPH Engineering.
How do I enrol in MBES-1 in India?
Use Request a quote on this page, or call HobiTech on +91 70225 26509. We confirm the price and enrolment details, and every order comes with a GST invoice.