S57standardit

The S57 standard, officially known as the IHO Transfer Standard for Digital Hydrographic Data, is a digital vector data standard developed by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO). Its primary purpose is to facilitate the exchange of hydrographic data between different organizations and systems. S57 defines the objects, attributes, and relationships used to represent hydrographic features digitally, such as coastlines, depths, navigation aids, and seabed features.

The standard is structured into several parts, including a base standard that defines the general framework and specific object catalogues that detail the features to be encoded. S57 data is typically stored in a file format that uses a specific encoding scheme. This allows for the precise representation of complex geographic features and their associated properties, which is crucial for applications like electronic charting systems (ECS) and electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS).

The development of S57 was driven by the need for a universal method for representing and exchanging hydrographic information, moving away from paper charts and enabling more sophisticated digital navigation and data analysis. It plays a vital role in maritime safety, allowing for the creation and updating of electronic navigational charts (ENCs) that are used by mariners worldwide. The standard is periodically reviewed and updated by the IHO to incorporate advancements in technology and evolving hydrographic data requirements.