Looking deeper
My inspiration for this project was the 1977 Heezen/Tharp/Berann map that portrayed the world ocean floor with unprecedented detail and drama, and helped promote the theory of plate tectonics.
This is a modern interpretation of their classic map. It is based on the latest bathymetric data—merged GEBCO and BathDNN25, a deep neural network product derived from SWOT. These hybrid data were then rendered with Eduard and Natural Scene Designer software as plan oblique relief. Like the Heezen/Tharp/Berann map, topographic features appear three-dimensional, complete with cast shadows. The GEBCO Undersea Feature Names Gazetteer was the main source for names.
Tom Patterson
June 15, 2026
Free map downloads - Pick the version best for you
World Ocean Floor
Terms of use
The World Ocean Floor map is in the public domain. Use it any way that you want. You are not required to cite the map.
Modifying and repurposing the map
Layered Adobe Illustrator file with and terrain art, 81.1 MB
Terrain art without type and type halos
Contact me
I will periodically update the map. Please let me know about major features to include or any problems that you find.
Thanks!
Tom Patterson Bio
Printing and online viewing
The map measures 153.7 x 83.8 cm (60.5 x 33 in) at 350 dpi.
To see my other maps, click here
Version 1.0, June 15, 2026 Change Log