Seismic Network Expansion and Modernization in Ukraine Project
The seismic hazard department of the Subbotin Institute of Geophysics of the National Academy of Science of Ukraine, with the support and collaboration of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Michigan State University (MSU), and the EarthScope Consortium (EarthScope) plan to expand the national seismic network through the installation of permanent broadband seismic stations in the territory of Ukraine.
The project, known as the Seismic Network Expansion and Modernization in Ukraine (SNEMU), aims to improve regional network coverage by making high-quality data from new stations openly available to the global scientific community in real time. To maximize the effectiveness of SNEMU, multiple factors must be considered during the initial selection, preparation, and installation of new seismic stations. One critical component during the site selection process of any seismic network is an assessment of the seismic noise level at potential sites.
To address this important aspect of the project, the STCU, in partnership with the Institute of Earth Sciences/National Seismic Monitoring Center of the Illia University, organized a comprehensive training for the seismic hazard department of the Subbotin Institute of Geophysics. Held from June 26 to July 7, 2023, in Tbilisi, Georgia, this training falls under the Seismic Targeted Research Program of the STCU. Expert researchers from LLNL, MSU, and the EarthScope Consortium delivered lectures and conducted training sessions, sharing their expertise and state-of-the-art techniques in the field of seismic research.
The primary goal of the training program is to equip Ukrainian experts with the necessary knowledge and skills to conduct noise surveys efficiently. By mastering these techniques, the Ukrainian experts will be able to evaluate potential sites for the SNEMU project and the planned permanent stations in a timely manner.
The expertise gained during the program will increase confidence that the deployed SNEMU stations provide stable and reliable recordings within reasonable timeframes and costs. By strengthening the Ukrainian seismic network through these advancements, the country will significantly improve its ability to monitor and mitigate seismic hazards, thereby contributing to the overall safety and well-being of its citizens and people in the region.
The STCU remains dedicated to fostering scientific collaboration and knowledge exchange in the field of seismic research. By partnering with international institutions and leveraging their support, Ukraine continues to make significant progress in advancing its scientific capabilities and solidifying its position as a global contributor to seismic research and monitoring.
