The dataset shows global bathymetry based on The General Bathymetric Chart of the Oceans (GEBCO) 2019. The dataset represents a continuous model of seafloor topography derived from a combination of multibeam, singlebeam and satellite altimetry data. The dataset has been reprojected to a polar stereographic projection and published as a web-based background map for use in the ISAAFFIK Arctic Gateway portal.

During the period from 1974 to 2010 various cruises from BGR acquired seismic lines worldwide. The aim of these marine expeditions was a detailed survey of the geological structure.