[DLS] James Atterholt (USGS)

Fiber Tectonics: Tackling Large-Scale Problems with Fine-Scale Sensing

Observations of subsurface structure and large earthquakes are often sparse and low resolution. This makes interpretations of the processes that shape the Earth’s lithosphere and impose seismic hazard fuzzy and nonunique. Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) is an emergent technique that transforms fiber-optic cables into ultra-dense arrays of strainmeters, providing meter-scale resolution over tens of kilometers for long recording periods. Recent advances now make it possible to probe fiber-measured earthquake wavefields for signatures of large-scale deformation and dynamic behavior. Using DAS arrays in the Eastern California Shear Zone and near the Mendocino Triple Junction, I image a diversity of tectonic-scale phenomena. This includes the length-scale over which the Garlock Fault penetrates the mantle, the plumbing system of the Coso Volcanic Field in the lower crust, and the rupture propagation of the 2024 M7 Mendocino Fault Earthquake. Dense measurements vastly improve the clarity with which we can view these phenomena, offering new insights into how processes at depth shape the Earth’s surface and what drives the behavior of large earthquakes.

EAPS Department Lecture Series —

Weekly talks aimed to bring together the entire EAPS community, given by leading thinkers in the areas of geology, geophysics, geobiology, geochemistry, atmospheric science, oceanography, climatology, and planetary science. Runs concurrently with class 12.S501.

Contact: eapsinfo@mit.edu