Module 4

Chart Updating

1. What is a nautical chart?

A nautical chart is a specialized map used for maritime navigation. It provides detailed information
about the waterways, coastlines, depths, hazards, aids to navigation, and other features of a
particular area of the Earth's oceans, seas, or lakes. Nautical charts are essential tools for mariners,
including ship navigators and recreational boaters, to safely navigate through waterways.

2. What information does format of chart updates include?

The format of chart updates, also known as Notices to Mariners (NTMs), provides essential
information to mariners about changes, corrections, and other relevant updates to nautical charts.
Notices to Mariners are issued regularly by hydrographic offices or agencies responsible for chart
production. The information included in chart updates typically covers a range of topics to keep
mariners informed about changes in navigational conditions. The format may vary slightly among
different hydrographic offices, but generally, NTMs include the following information:

Chart Number and Title:

Clearly identified at the beginning of each Notice to Mariners is the chart number and title,
indicating the specific nautical chart to which the updates apply.

Date of Issue:

The date of issue is provided to inform mariners about the currency of the information and to
ensure they are using the most recent updates.

Record of Notices:

A record of previous Notices to Mariners and their relevant details is often included. This allows
mariners to track the history of updates for a particular chart.

Summary of Changes:

A summary of changes provides a brief overview of the corrections and updates made to the chart.
This section is designed to help mariners quickly grasp the nature of the modifications.

Description of Changes:

A detailed description follows the summary, providing specific information about each change. This
includes corrections to soundings, navigational aids, shorelines, obstructions, and other relevant
features.
New Navigational Aids:

Information about newly established navigational aids, such as buoys, beacons, lights, or other
markers, is included. This helps mariners stay informed about additions to the navigational
infrastructure.

Discontinued Navigational Aids:

Notices may also include information about navigational aids that have been discontinued,
removed, or are no longer in operation. Mariners need to be aware of changes in aids to
navigation.

Changes in Depths:

Changes in water depths, such as shoaling or dredging, are reported to help mariners navigate
safely and avoid underwater hazards.

Obstructions:

Notices to Mariners provide information about new obstructions or changes to existing ones,
helping mariners avoid potential hazards to navigation.

3. What tools can be used for chart updating?

Updating nautical charts is a critical task to ensure the safety of navigation, and several tools are
used for this purpose.

Notices to Mariners (NTMs):

NTMs are official publications issued by hydrographic offices or agencies. They provide information
about corrections, changes, and updates to nautical charts. Mariners regularly consult NTMs to stay
informed about navigational changes.

Correction Stickers:

Physical correction stickers or overlays are sometimes provided with paper charts. These stickers
contain updates and corrections issued in Notices to Mariners. Mariners manually apply these
stickers to the relevant areas on the paper chart.

Chart Correction Pens:

Chart correction pens are water-resistant pens with non-permanent ink used to make corrections
directly on paper charts. Corrections made with these pens can be easily removed when the chart
is updated with the latest information.

Electronic Chart Updating Systems (ECUS):

ECUS are software systems used to update electronic navigational charts (ENCs). These systems
receive and apply updates automatically from official sources. Mariners use ECUS to ensure that
electronic charts on navigation systems are current.

Chart Plotters:

Chart plotters are electronic navigation devices that display digital charts. They often have the
capability to receive and apply chart updates. Mariners can use chart plotters to navigate with
updated electronic charts on board.

Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs):

ENCs are digital charts that can be updated electronically. Mariners use compatible software to
download and apply updates to ENCs. ENCs are widely used on Electronic Chart Display and
Information Systems (ECDIS) and other electronic navigation systems.

Navigation Software:

Various navigation software applications allow mariners to display and update digital charts. These
applications may receive updates directly from hydrographic offices or through subscription
services.

Automatic Identification System (AIS):

AIS provides real-time information about the positions and movements of vessels. Mariners can use
AIS to gather information about the current location of navigational aids, other vessels, and
potential hazards.

Online Services and Websites:

Hydrographic offices and maritime agencies often provide online services and websites where
mariners can download the latest chart updates, NTMs, and other relevant information.

GPS and GNSS Receivers:

Global Positioning System (GPS) and other Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receivers
provide accurate positioning information. Mariners use GPS/GNSS data to cross-check their
positions on charts and identify any discrepancies.

4. What are functions of chart updating tools?

Chart updating tools serve several crucial functions in the process of keeping nautical charts
accurate and current. These tools are designed to facilitate the implementation of corrections,
changes, and updates to charts, ensuring that mariners have the most reliable and up-to-date
information for safe navigation.
Receiving Notices to Mariners (NTMs):

Chart updating tools are used to receive and access Notices to Mariners (NTMs) issued by
hydrographic offices or relevant authorities. NTMs contain information about corrections, changes,
and updates to nautical charts.

Applying Corrections to Paper Charts:

Physical tools, such as correction stickers, correction pens, or overlays, are used to apply
corrections directly to paper charts. Mariners manually update paper charts based on the
information provided in NTMs.

Updating Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs):

Electronic Chart Updating Systems (ECUS), chart plotters, and navigation software are employed to
update Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs). These tools automatically apply corrections and
updates received from official sources to digital charts.

Downloading Digital Updates:

Electronic chart updating tools enable mariners to download digital updates, including new editions
of charts, corrections, and additional information. This is often done through online services
provided by hydrographic offices or other authorized sources.

Verifying Positions with GPS/GNSS:

GPS (Global Positioning System) and GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receivers serve as
tools to verify vessel positions on charts. Mariners use these systems to cross-check their positions
and ensure alignment with charted features.

Automatic Application of Updates:

Some advanced chart updating tools, especially in Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems
(ECDIS), have the capability to automatically apply updates to electronic charts. This automation
helps streamline the updating process.

Providing Information on Navigational Aids:

AIS (Automatic Identification System) and other tools provide real-time information about the
positions and status of navigational aids, such as buoys, beacons, and lighthouses. Mariners use
this information to update their awareness of the navigational environment.

Cross-Checking with Vessel Traffic Services (VTS):

Mariners use chart updating tools to cross-check information provided by Vessel Traffic Services
(VTS) regarding traffic conditions, potential hazards, and navigational advice. This helps mariners
stay informed and make well-informed decisions.

Ensuring Compliance with Regulations:

Chart updating tools assist mariners in ensuring compliance with relevant regulations, including the
International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) standards for the maintenance of navigational
charts.

5. What do the following terms mean: move, amend, delete, insert, and substitute?

In the context of chart updating and Notices to Mariners (NTMs), the terms "move," "amend,"
"delete," "insert," and "substitute" are used to describe different types of changes or corrections
made to nautical charts.

Move:

Definition: The term "move" indicates that a feature or object on the chart has changed its
position.

Example: A buoy or a navigational aid has been relocated from its previously charted position.

Amend:

Definition: "Amend" refers to making changes or modifications to the existing information on the
chart without completely replacing it.

Example: There may be changes in the depth information, alterations to a coastline, or

modifications to the characteristics of a navigational aid.

Delete:

Definition: "Delete" means the removal or elimination of specific information from the chart.

Example: A navigational aid has been discontinued, a wreck has been removed, or a feature is no
longer relevant for navigation.

Insert:

Definition: "Insert" involves adding new information to the chart that was not present in the
previous edition.

Example: A newly established buoy, a recently discovered hazard, or a change in the configuration
of a port facility may be inserted into the chart.

Substitute:

Definition: "Substitute" implies replacing one piece of information with another, often to reflect a
change in a navigational feature.

Example: A new edition of a chart may substitute the position or characteristics of a buoy,
lighthouse, or other navigational aid with updated information.

6. What is tracing?

In a general sense, tracing refers to the process of following, copying, or reproducing something by
closely examining or imitating its features. The term can be applied in various contexts, including
art, drafting, graphics, and mapmaking.

Drafting and Cartography:

In the field of drafting and cartography, tracing can refer to the process of copying or reproducing
information from one map or drawing onto another. This can be done manually by using
transparent overlays or digitally using software tools. Tracing is often used when updating maps,
incorporating changes from one edition to another, or when creating derivative maps.

7. What are the functions of the tracing?

In the context of navigation and chart updating, tracing may involve the manual or digital transfer
of information from one chart to another, especially when making corrections or updates. It's a
method to ensure that changes made to a chart, such as amended positions of navigational aids or
alterations to coastline features, are accurately reflected in the updated version of the chart.

The specific meaning of tracing can vary based on the field or activity in which it is used, but it
generally involves the process of replicating or transferring information from one source to another
with precision and accuracy.

8. How is tracing used?

Tracing is used in various fields and contexts for different purposes. The methods and tools for
tracing can vary based on the specific application.

Drafting and Cartography:

Manual Tracing: Cartographers use transparent overlays or mylar sheets to manually trace updated
information onto existing maps. This is common when making corrections or updates to
navigational charts.

Digital Tracing: In digital cartography, changes and updates to maps are often made digitally.
Cartographers use software tools to trace over existing map features or to create new maps based
on existing data.

9. How can we: delete a buoy, amend range of a light, insert buoy, move a light? (Give
instructions).
Making changes to navigational features on a nautical chart involves a careful and standardized
process to ensure the accuracy and safety of navigation. These changes are typically communicated
through Notices to Mariners (NTMs).

1. Deleting a Buoy:

Instructions:

Refer to Notices to Mariners (NTMs): Check the latest NTMs issued by the relevant hydrographic
office for information on the deletion of the buoy.

Identify the Buoy: Locate the specific buoy on the chart that is marked for deletion.

Update the Chart: Use the information provided in the NTM to make the necessary changes on the
chart.

Apply Corrections: If using a paper chart, apply the correction to delete the buoy. For electronic
charts, use the appropriate tools to delete the buoy digitally.

2. Amending the Range of a Light:

Instructions:

Consult NTMs: Refer to the latest NTMs to obtain information about the amendment to the range
of the light.

Identify the Light: Locate the specific light on the chart for which the range is being amended.

Update the Chart: Apply the correction to the chart to reflect the amended range of the light.

Indicate Changes: If using a paper chart, annotate the chart with the amended range. For electronic
charts, use the appropriate tools to update the light information.

3. Inserting a Buoy:

Instructions:

Review NTMs: Check NTMs to find information about the insertion of a new buoy.

Identify Location: Determine the precise location where the new buoy will be inserted on the chart.

Update the Chart: Insert the new buoy on the chart, indicating its type, characteristics, and position
as per the NTM.

Apply Corrections: For paper charts, apply the necessary corrections to include the new buoy. For
electronic charts, use the appropriate tools to add the buoy digitally.

4. Moving a Light:
 Instructions:

Refer to NTMs: Review NTMs for information about the movement of the light.

Identify Current and New Positions: Locate the current position of the light on the chart and
determine the new position.

Update the Chart: Move the light to its new position on the chart, indicating the change.

Apply Corrections: On a paper chart, physically move the light symbol and annotate the chart. For
electronic charts, use the appropriate tools to update the light's position.

10. What are pole/ knot/ nautical mile/ position?

In maritime and navigation terminology, several terms are commonly used to describe
measurements, distances, and positions.

Pole:

Definition: A pole, in the context of navigation, refers to a unit of angular measurement. It is

equivalent to one degree of latitude. There are 90 poles in a full circle (360 degrees), and each pole
represents a division of the Earth's surface along lines of longitude.

Knot:

Definition: A knot is a unit of speed used in navigation and maritime contexts. It represents one
nautical mile per hour. The term "knot" is commonly used to express the speed of a vessel or the
current in the water. One knot is equal to one nautical mile per hour.

Nautical Mile:

Definition: The nautical mile is a unit of measurement used in navigation and aviation to represent
distances over the Earth's surface. One nautical mile is defined as one minute of latitude. It is
approximately equal to 1.852 meters. The use of nautical miles simplifies navigation calculations,
especially when measuring distances at sea.

Position:

Definition: In navigation, a position refers to the geographical location or coordinates of a point on

the Earth's surface. Positions are typically expressed in terms of latitude and longitude. Latitude
measures the distance north or south of the equator, while longitude measures the distance east or
west of the Prime Meridian. Positions are crucial for plotting courses, determining distances, and
ensuring accurate navigation.

11. What is ECDIS?

ECDIS stands for Electronic Chart Display and Information System. It is a computer-based navigation
system used in the maritime industry to integrate electronic navigational charts (ENCs) and other
navigational information for safe and efficient navigation

Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs): ECDIS uses official electronic navigational charts, which are
digital versions of traditional paper charts. ENCs are vector charts that contain georeferenced
information about coastlines, depths, buoys, navigational aids, and other features relevant to
navigation.

Real-time Positioning: ECDIS integrates with navigation systems, such as GPS (Global Positioning
System) or GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System), to provide real-time positioning information.
This allows mariners to accurately track the vessel's position on the electronic chart.

Voyage Planning and Route Optimization: Mariners can plan and optimize routes using ECDIS. The
system takes into account various factors, such as navigational hazards, weather conditions, and
vessel characteristics, to suggest the safest and most efficient routes.

Alarm and Alert Systems: ECDIS includes alarm and alert functionalities to notify the navigators of
potential dangers or deviations from the planned route. This helps in early detection and response
to navigational risks.

Integration of Additional Information: ECDIS allows the integration of additional information such
as AIS (Automatic Identification System) data, radar information, weather data, and other relevant
navigational data. This comprehensive information enhances situational awareness for the
navigator.

Automatic Chart Updates: ECDIS systems receive and display official updates to electronic charts
through a secure and standardized process. This ensures that mariners have access to the latest
navigational information and corrections.