Broad, relatively flat expanse of sea floor lying 36 km/24 mi below sea level. Abyssal plains are found in all the major oceans, and they extend from bordering continental rises to mid-oceanic ridges. Abyssal plains are covered in a thick layer of sediment, and their flatness is punctuated by rugged low abyssal hills and high sea mounts.
The emblem recalls the flag of Turkey, a long-standing ally. The points of the star represent the eight Turkic tribes of Azerbaijan. Effective date: 5 February 1991.