The UW Photonic Sensing Facility uses fiber-optic sensing technology to detect ground motions as small as 1 nanometer for seismology, glaciology, oceanography, and infrastructure monitoring. The new center will expand seismic data collection by thousands of times.
A new analysis of seismic data from NASA's Mars InSight mission has found that the Martian subsurface contains little or no ice, contradicting a leading idea about water on Mars. This discovery suggests that conditions are too cold to freeze water at depths below 300 meters near the equator.
High stresses persist in the Dachuan-Shuangshi Fault Zone, indicating a moderate risk of strong earthquakes in the Dayi seismic gap. The study suggests that the area is still capable of producing moderately strong earthquakes due to its brittle crustal structure and high stress conditions.
A novel three-dimensional model of the fluid stored deep in Earth's crust along the Cascadia Subduction Zone provides new insight into how the accumulation and release of those fluids may influence seismic activity. The study's findings have applications for increasing understanding of seismic activity along the Cascadia Subduction Zone.
A team led by Northern Arizona University will investigate the tectonic and geodynamic processes controlling faulting, magmatism, and surface deformation in the Pacific Ocean. The research aims to better understand the asthenosphere's role in seismic and volcanic events.
Scientists found that narwhals experience a large increase in the energetic cost of diving while their heart rate is paradoxically reduced, leading to a significant physiological challenge. The study reveals that prolonged exposure to seismic noise disrupts the normal physiological response of narwhals.
Researchers deployed a fiber-optic cable on Grímsvötn's ice cap to detect low-frequency volcanic tremor, revealing the floating ice sheet acts as a natural amplifier of seismic signals. This technology shows promise for monitoring other ice-covered volcano systems.
Researchers investigated seismic attenuation in the Turkish-Iranian Plateau and Zagros highlands, revealing moderate Sn Q values beneath the plateau and high Q values beneath the Zagros. Additionally, studies explored magmatic processes in West Kunlun, Northwestern China, and the Little Cottonwood stock, Utah, USA, providing insights i...
Researchers analyzed the catastrophic failure of Japan's Misasa Railroad Bridge, revealing that flood hydrodynamic forces exceeded seismic design standards by nearly double. The study recommends increasing space under bridges to reduce submersion and designing structures to withstand overflow.
A study found that individual factors such as education level and health status are more influential on leisure-time physical activity than municipal resources. Commuting physical activity is also lower in rural municipalities due to longer distances and limited public transport.
A new method allows for the separation of signals generated by mining activity from background seismic noise, enabling real-time monitoring of seismic events and structural integrity. This approach could be applied to various environments, including mines, volcanoes, and oil extraction sites.
Researchers used a hindcasting method to analyze the causes of induced earthquakes in the Delaware Basin. The study found that at least 68% of earthquakes occurred in areas with likely oil and gas activities, highlighting the link between hydraulic fracturing and seismic activity.
A study by University of Texas at Austin researchers found that 68% of earthquakes above magnitude 1.5 are associated with oil and gas production activities such as hydraulic fracturing or wastewater disposal. The study used statistical analysis and physics-based modeling to identify the causal factors of induced seismicity in the Dela...
Researchers have discovered changes in the Earth's outer core, which are responsible for generating the magnetic field. According to Zhou's findings, a one-second discrepancy in SKS wave travel time indicates the formation of low-density regions with light elements such as hydrogen and oxygen.
A new approach based on deep learning AI detects weak gravitational signals, or PEGS, generated by large-mass motion in megaquakes. This allows for real-time tracking of earthquake growth after a magnitude 8 event.
Current predictive models underestimate tsunami severity by as much as 100%, according to USC researchers who found a correlation between tsunami strength and outer wedge width. The study identifies high-risk subduction zones, including Iran and the Cascadia zone, which could experience massive tsunamis.
The study reveals hyperextension in the Qiongdongnan Basin's crust with characteristics of magmatic influence from the Hainan mantle plume. Low-velocity conduits indicate crustal magmatic footprints, supporting the plume's impact on rifted margins.
Researchers convert undersea optical cables into environmental sensors, detecting seismic vibrations and ocean currents with greater precision. This approach enables a large network of permanent and real-time seafloor sensors to be implemented without modifying existing subsea infrastructure.
A team of 76 scientists used multiple forms of technology to collect data on the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano eruption, which was measured globally by 53 infrasound monitors. The data revealed that infrasound waves traveled surprisingly far and accurately recorded the event's seismic activity.
A new method of detecting mega earthquakes uses deep-learning models to assess the magnitude of these events, providing an earlier warning for tsunamis. This approach leverages gravity waves generated by large earthquakes, allowing for more accurate estimation and faster response time.
Researchers analyzed stress perturbation on the Maqin-Maqu segment of the Eastern Kunlun fault after the 2021 Ms7.4 Maduo Earthquake, finding it likely to be substantially stressed and promote earthquakes on the seismic gap. The study predicts increased seismic activity in surrounding faults.
Researchers deployed a fiber-optic-based sensing system to track sea ice formation in the Beaufort Sea, demonstrating a new method for near-real-time monitoring. The technology used distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) to observe changes in seismic waves caused by sea ice formation and break-up, providing insights into the Arctic's health.
Researchers from InSight's Marsquake Service have detected two massive marsquakes on Mars' far side, with magnitudes 4.2 and 4.1. The events provided unique insights into the planet's core-mantle boundary and offered a glimpse into previously unexplored regions of Mars.
Researchers found a slow, shallow magnitude 8.16 subevent that contributed over 70% to the seismic moment of the 2021 South Sandwich Island earthquake. The event was 'invisible' at first glance and had unusual features, including a massive aftershock area and tsunamis across three oceans.
A study by KyotoU scientists has discovered a significant relationship between volcanic activity and seismic faults. The research team found that the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes were triggered by the eruption of Mount Aso, which caused a shift in the fault's movement pattern.
A new device, Superconducting Earthquake Early-warning Device (SEED), could detect minute gravity fluctuations caused by earthquakes, potentially speeding up earthquake early warning systems. The device aims to detect large earthquakes within 5-10 seconds, complementing existing seismic wave-based systems.
A seismic algorithm has been developed to detect and locate volcanic eruptions in near real-time. The algorithm was tested using the Hunga Tonga Ha'apai eruption, which ejected around 10 km³ of ash and lava, making it the largest explosive eruption of the 21st century.
Scientists are tracking changes in seismic wave velocity around the Mexico City Basin using ambient noise generated by urban activity. The study found a long-term increase in velocity at stations over compacting lake clay deposits, which can affect building stability during earthquakes. Additionally, seasonal variations and post-seismi...
A new study by Hiroshima University introduces a novel AI-based technique for estimating site amplification factors from microtremor data. The model demonstrated potential as a predictive tool for characterizing site amplification factors, but notes are needed for further optimization with a larger dataset.
The Urban Seismology Project successfully installed a geophone array in Yangon, Myanmar despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The project aimed to build geophysics capacity in the nation and monitored a potentially locked subduction zone and major strike-slip fault.
Seismologists have developed methods to take wave signals from seismometers and reverse engineer features of the medium they pass through, known as seismic tomography. A new full-waveform inversion model uses 3D wave simulations and data sensitivities at the global scale to improve the resolution of current seismic models.
Seismic and acoustic data from a research reactor can accurately predict its power state, with up to 98% accuracy. Machine learning models applied to this data also enable the estimation of power levels, with around 66% accuracy.
A network of simple seismic stations hosted in volunteers' homes helped understand the Mw7.2 Nippes earthquake and its aftershocks. The citizen seismometer network contributed crucial data to characterize the event and forecast damaging aftershocks, highlighting the added-value of citizen seismology for rapid earthquake response.
A new study finds that cell phone GNSS networks can accurately track crustal deformation, offering a more comprehensive view of seismic activity. By combining private and public sector networks, researchers aim to improve fault models and enhance disaster prevention.
Researchers mapped stress changes before and during an earthquake induced by hydraulic fracturing in Alberta, Canada. The study used seismic anisotropy to monitor the processes that occur when hydraulic fracturing causes induced earthquakes, revealing a network of tensile fractures created during fluid injection.
A recent seismic study reveals that Patagonia is rising as glaciers melt due to a gap in the tectonic plate under the region. The study found low seismic velocity and a thinning of the lithosphere above the gap, which is driving rapid uplift.
Researchers created a 3D tectonic model combining geological, geophysical and satellite data to resolve timescales between earthquakes and mountain range formation. The study reveals that most uplift occurs in the period between earthquakes, improving local seismic hazard maps.
University of Utah researchers measured 14 rock towers in Utah to predict their seismic stability. They used mathematics that describe built structures' resonance to create a dataset, allowing for predictions without climbing the towers.
Researchers identified a hidden magnitude-8.2 earthquake as the trigger for the worldwide tsunami, which was buried within complex seismic waves. The study reveals the importance of accurately characterizing big earthquakes to mitigate tsunami hazards.
Physical activity monitors provide direct feedback, leading to small to moderate increases in daily steps (1,235 extra steps) and moderate to vigorous physical activity (50 extra minutes per week). The evidence suggests these devices may be useful for adults who don't meet recommended activity levels.
New research suggests that ultra-low velocity zones in the deep mantle may be regions made of different rocks than the rest of the mantle, with compositions potentially linked to the early Earth. The study's findings imply the presence of layered structures within these zones, shedding light on their origin and evolution.
A recent study reveals that narwhals are highly affected by noise pollution from ships and seismic airgun pulses, triggering stress and altering their behavior. Researchers hope that better management of noise pollution will protect these unique Arctic animals.
Researchers used Rayleigh waves to produce high-resolution images of the rocks underneath the ice sheet, identifying key factors controlling ice flow. The study provides a better understanding of processes contributing to accelerated ice discharge into the ocean and sea level rise.
Researchers deployed a seismic array in unused telecom fiber optic cable to detect dozens of aftershocks missed by permanent stations after a magnitude 5.1 earthquake in Tangshan, China. The findings demonstrate how 'dark fiber' can be used for ultra-dense seismic monitoring in urban areas.
The Cumbre Vieja volcano eruption revealed a four-year period of increased seismic activity, suggesting early warning signs of unrest. This discovery has significant implications for eruption forecasting at quiescent volcanoes.
Researchers found that increased physical activity reduced mortality risk in all groups, but health benefits plateaued in healthy individuals and those with cardiovascular risk factors. In contrast, cardiovascular disease patients showed no further benefit beyond a certain volume of physical activity.
A team of Chinese scholars used deep seismic reflection profiling to uncover the fine details of continental collision, solving a decades-long mystery. The study found four key points: northward subduction, a crustal-scale vertical collision, and southward subduction under the Qilian Mountains.
Researchers analyze new seismic data from the Mars InSight mission to plan for future planetary seismographs. The findings provide insights into Martian seismic activity, signal processing, and instrument operation, paving the way for upcoming missions to the Moon, Mars, and Jupiter's moon Titan.
Researchers analyzed seismic data to uncover the composition of Elysium Planitia's shallow subsurface, revealing a regolith layer and basaltic rocks. The findings provide insights into Mars' geological history and properties that will inform future landed missions.
A research team analyzed seismic noise recorded over the last decade to better understand volcanic processes at Campi Flegrei. They found that directionality loss in noise data indicates the migration of deep fluids towards the eastern caldera, which triggers earthquakes.
Scientists discovered that low-frequency energy from earthquakes travels in a four-leaf clover pattern near the fault, while higher frequency waves travel in all directions. This finding could improve building designs and mitigate earthquake damage by prioritizing vulnerable areas within the pattern.
Researchers have identified a quantum phase transition in ferropericlase, a mineral abundant in the lower mantle. The study, published in Nature Communications, confirms earlier predictions and suggests this phenomenon may increase tectonic events like earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
Researchers at Kyushu University developed a new, low-cost seismic monitoring system that can detect changes in pore pressure with greater than 99.99% accuracy. The system uses a small seismic source and distributed acoustic sensing technology to monitor subsurface formations over an extensive area at a relatively low cost.
Researchers create novel approach to map stress orientation in the Earth's crust using nonlinear elastic behavior and rock properties. This technique provides valuable insights into continental regions with limited historical geologic information.
Researchers from GFZ and NGRI used seismic data to identify three phases of a catastrophic flood, including rockslide and debris flow. The study found that seismic networks can be used to warn of impending flash floods, with available warning times varying by distance and speed.
Researchers used extensive 2D and 3D broadband seismic reflection data to visualize and understand the subsurface structures of the Orphan Basin. The study provides context for future assessments of source rock, reservoir, and seal strata in oil and gas exploration.
Researchers deployed 100 short-period seismometers to measure ice flow velocity in East Antarctica, tracking movement of up to 1m over a one-month period. The study found that seismic stations on ice sheets showed shifting longitude distributions, while those on bedrock maintained consistent coordinates.
Researchers explored wind turbine dynamics under simultaneous wind and earthquake excitation, finding a coupling effect between aerodynamic damping and blade stiffness. This knowledge can guide seismic design of wind turbines and inform determination of wind-earthquake combinations.
Scientists at Ehime University successfully measured the longitudinal and shear velocities of MgSiO3 majorite garnet up to 18 GPa and 2000 K. The results suggest that elastic softening occurs in mantle garnets with increasing pressure, potentially affecting subducted slab speeds.
Researchers develop a new unsplit complex frequency-shifted perfectly matched layer (UCF-PML) method for simulating second-order acoustic wave equations. The TS-CPML implementation outperforms conventional CPML in terms of absorbing efficiency, leading to more accurate seismic wavefield simulations.