World Hydrography Day ( World Hydrography Day ) is celebrated annually on June 21. It was established in 2006, thanks to the efforts of the International Hydrographic Organization, IHO ( International Hydrographic Organization, IHO ), which has been leading its history since June 1921. The initiative to establish a new international holiday was supported by the UN General Assembly.
Hydrography – science and field of activity related to mapping, issuing instructions, requirements and guidance documents on navigation. It is no coincidence that the literal meaning of the word « hydrography » in Greek means water description. Thus, one of the main tasks of hydrography can be attributed to ensuring the safety of navigation in the oceans, seas and inland waters of the states ( on rivers, lakes, reservoirs ). This is achieved through hydrographic research, work, which results in new navigation charts, manuals and manuals, the construction of beacons, signal lights, protective signs, etc.
The use of hydrography is currently very multifaceted. The use of hydrographic research results is not limited to navigation alone. It is used in dredging, finding new resources on the seabed, designing and constructing port and water protection facilities, as well as in the field of ecology and safety.
In each country with a river and navy, there is a hydrographic service that ensures the safety of navigation.
Russian hydrography has been going on since Peter I, when the first focused hydrographic studies began. Regular oceanographic and hydrometeorological work began to be carried out in Russia from the beginning of the 19th century after the round-the-world voyage of Yu.F. Lisyansky and I.F. Cruisestern.
Today, modern hydrography uses high-precision technologies ( Photo: Volodymyr Goinyk, licensed by Shutterstock.com )
Hydrographic studies have become an indispensable part of marine round-the-world expeditions conducted by many maritime powers. In the future, special research vessels were built to conduct hydrographic studies.
In June 1921, the International Hydrographic Organization appeared, the activity of which was aimed at coordinating the efforts of the hydrographic services of different countries in order to facilitate navigation and increase its safety.
The methods of hydrographic research were gradually improved, which made it possible to compile more accurate maps, tables, diagrams, manuals and manuals used in shipping. Today, modern hydrography uses high-precision technologies, including satellite imagery and automated complexes.
Each year, World Hydrography Day is held under a specific topic chosen by the International Hydrographic Organization.