Reflection Seismology

The University of Arizona Reflection Seismology program has outstanding facilities for seismic data acquisition, processing and modeling to investigate Earth structures from the near-surface to the deep crust and upper mantle. Although reflection seismic techniques were designed principally as tools for petroleum exploration, these techniques have proven to be immensely valuable in understanding crustal structure and the details of tectonic processes.

In the academic environment, the application of seismic reflection technology often is somewhat unusual. Profiling across Precambrian suture zones, three-component recording to image the base of the crust, or imaging low-angle or listric normal fault planes in the Basin and Range Province don't often lead to "prospects," but can give very important insights to how the Earth works. This information, in turn, is critical to explorationists who rely on accurate Earth science data to predict where resources should be found, and to other scientists, policy makers and the public who need to know that the Earth's resources are used wisely. Furthermore, these unusual applications require that we develop new approaches to data acquisition and analysis and, thus, have the potential for generating new technological developments.

Under the various headings above, you can find out more about Reflection Seismology and what is happening in this exciting area at the University of Arizona - Welcome!

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Under development by Dr. Roy A. Johnson. Last Modified: January 31, 2006

email: johnson@geo.Arizona.EDU