LSU Seismologist developing an Educational Seismic Network
Juan Lorenzo of the LSU Department of Geology and Geophysics has begun the installation of a number of low cost seismometers to measure natural and induced earth motions. He has built a prototype, low-cost (<$1,000), single-channel, seismograph. About 20 such recording units with earthquake sensors can be deployed state-wide within public high schools. Students and science teachers would conduct a large-scale scientific experiment to record natural and induced ground shaking to understand the formation, structure and evolution of the Gulf Coast continental lithosphere.
The recorder comprises a personal computer (120-MHz) that controls a 24-bit, 100 samples/second, analog-to-digital digitizing board via a TCP/IP connection. A 1 pulse/per sec on timing signal (10-25 ms accurate) is fed from an Global Positioning System unit adapted from the Redwood City Public Seismic Network (L.Cochrane ,psn.quake.net ). Data text-files are sent via the internet to LSU for Webcasting. Vertical ground motion is detected by L-4C 1-Hz seismometers.
In 'active mode', the network will record arrivals from
Gulf Coast onland and offshore
commercial seismic experiments. Industry links will provide shot
location and times. In 'passive mode', the network can help predict wave
oscillations (seiches) in inland water bodies,
induced by large global earthquakes. Members of state colleges,
universities and private industry will link with science teachers and
students while conducting experiment , data analysis workshops, and
presentations of results at professional scientific meetings. Other
public benefits include immediate dissemination of relevant science and
technology, early seiche detection and post-seiche analysis of insurance
claims.
Juan Lorenzo and undergraduate
researcher, Amy Lasseigne, began emplacing the seismometers in the
vicinity of the Howe-Russell Complex during the summer of 2005. Since
the initial installation data acquisition and testing have
commenced. The complete history of the network can be viewed at:
www.geol.lsu.edu/jlorenzo/Educational%20Seismology/SeisMEAUXgraph/SeisMEAUXgraph.html.
Daily records of seismic motion can be viewed at:
http://www.geol.lsu.edu/jlorenzo/GCESN/index.html
