Navigational Chart Data Linked via Open Network Architecture
Navigational Charts Preservation Plan Ensures Safe Maritime Navigation
The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) has announced the Navigational Charts Preservation Plan, a comprehensive document outlining specifications and guidelines for maintaining and preserving navigational chart records. This plan is designed to ensure the accuracy, consistency, and reliability of navigational chart data for safe maritime navigation.
The plan encompasses various file formats and versions found in NARA holdings. For instance, the S-57 Electronic Navigation Chart uses the file extension 0xx and falls under the Navigational Charts and Geospatial categories. Its NARA Format ID is NF00637, and its NARA Linked Open Data TTL can be found at https://www.ourwebsite.gov/files/lod/dpframework/id/NF00637.ttl. Similarly, the Intergraph Raster Format uses the .crl extension, is categorized under the same groups, and has an NARA Format ID of NF00635. Its NARA Linked Open Data TTL is located at https://www.ourwebsite.gov/files/lod/dpframework/id/NF00635.ttl.
The Navigational Charts Preservation Plan details specifications for various aspects of chart records. It includes the types of charts and chart records maintained, such as paper charts, raster navigational charts (RNCs), and electronic navigational charts (ENCs). The plan also covers the inclusion of metadata like Zone of Confidence (ZOC) diagrams and source diagrams, which graphically represent hydrographic survey extents and quality categories to assist mariners in evaluating navigation risks in specific areas.
The plan also sets standards for the display of CATZOC (Category of Zone of Confidence) information, which is shown symbolically on ENCs and graphically on paper charts or RNCs. It integrates chart-related information with associated publications such as the Local Notices to Mariners and the Special Notice to Mariners, providing updates on marine regulations, hazards, and navigational tips that supplement chart data.
The plan ensures consistent documentation to facilitate the sharing of navigational data and maintain marine safety through clear communication of source data quality and chart updates. These specifications are embedded within NOAA’s comprehensive nautical charting services, which encompass hydrographic surveys, data collection, and navigation product development.
It is important to note that the processing capabilities and tools in use at NARA are part of the plans. However, the plans for proposed actions and tools are not exhaustive or universally applicable. For example, the BSB file format uses the .kap and .cap extensions and falls under the same categories. Its NARA Format ID is NF00636, and its NARA Linked Open Data TTL is located at https://www.ourwebsite.gov/files/lod/dpframework/id/NF00636.ttl.
The Navigational Charts Preservation Plan is a crucial step towards ensuring the safety and reliability of navigational chart records, ultimately supporting safe maritime navigation.
Data-and-cloud-computing technology plays a significant role in the Navigational Charts Preservation Plan, as chart-related information is integrated with associated publications and updates are published online, such as the Local Notices to Mariners and the Special Notice to Mariners.
The plan's specifications for various aspects of chart records, like CATZOC information, can be easily accessed and updated using data-and-cloud-computing technology, ensuring consistent documentation and maintaining marine safety through clear communication.
