Polar and Marine Seismology

Our research focusses on earthquakes and icequakes in the polar regions. With networks of seismometers we record the smallest ground vibrations of the polar seafloor and of ice bodies. Earthquakes along the mid-ocean ridge system of the Arctic Ocean tell us how its abnormal lithosphere is formed, accompanied by vigorous submarine volcanism and intensive hydrothermal activity. Simultaneously, our seismometers feel the environmental changes in the polar oceans like the effects of wave action and sea ice formation, of decaying icebergs and of ocean currents and ship traffic. On land, we study icequake activity to understand the stress regime and dynamics of ice bodies like the Antarctic ice shelves or Greenland´s ice streams.

Working Area

Mid-ocean ridges of the polar oceans, Northeast Greenland, Antarctica

Methods

We use continuous records of ground motion by seismometers that have been especially adapted to operate on the seafloor of ice-covered oceans and on ice surfaces. Seismograms are analysed with classic and modern processing methods of passive seismology. In addition, we use other geophysical datasets for a comprehensive interpretation of seismicity.