Project information
Project aim
Geoscience Australia operates an integrated geodetic and geophysical observing system in Australia, its neighbouring region and Antarctica. This science program represents the Antarctic and sub-Antarctic components of this system. It consists of four key elements: a geodetic element that maintains and develops a precise geodetic infrastructure that supports research and global geospatial activity; a geomagnetic element that monitors geomagnetic-field changes in the polar region; a seismic element that monitors global earthquake activity; and an infrasound element that monitors nuclear tests.
Project milestones
Summary of the season 2024/25
The Geoscience Australia geodetic and geophysical monitoring program in Antarctica plays a vital role in contributing to world-class Antarctic and Southern Ocean science. The acquisition of continuous, long-term geodetic, geomagnetic, seismological and infrasound data at observatories located at Macquarie Island, Casey, Davis, and Mawson continued during 2024-25 and helped to provide valuable insights into Earth systems and processes.
By integrating these datasets with data acquired by other regional observatory networks, the program supports the development of the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF), the International Geomagnetic Reference Field (IGRF) model, and contributes towards the Australian Government's efforts in monitoring geomagnetic activity, earthquake occurrences, and nuclear testing. These are fundamental to Australian obligations under the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty and to collaborative commitments with the International Real-time Magnetic Observatory Network (INTERMAGNET), Earthscope, United States Geological Survey (USGS), International Earth Rotation Service (IERS), and reinforces Geoscience Australia's commitment to collaboration and the open sharing of data.
Of significance is the development of the ITRF, which provides a consistent and accurate reference frame for aligning geodetic measurements globally. This enables researchers, scientists, and organisations to collaborate effectively and share data across borders. The availability of reliable and precise geodetic data enhances our understanding of global geodynamics, climate change impacts, and the Earth's shape and rotation.
In summary, this program provides data that aids in the mapping and understanding the Earth's surface, including the movement of tectonic plates, crustal deformation, and changes in sea level. Additionally, it supports earthquake alerting and tsunami warning in the region, navigation systems, mapping initiatives, and satellite positioning technologies. The program further supports Australia's efforts to protect the fragile Antarctic environment and ensure compliance with international agreements.
Summary of the season 2022/23
The Geoscience Australia geodetic and geophysical monitoring program in Antarctica plays a vital role in contributing to world-class Antarctic and Southern Ocean science. The acquisition of continuous, long-term geodetic, geomagnetic, and seismological data at observatories located at Macquarie Island, Casey, Davis, and Mawson continued during 2022-23 and helped to provide valuable insights into Earth systems and processes.
By integrating these datasets with data acquired by other regional observatory networks, the program supports the development of the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF), the International Geomagnetic Reference Field (IGRF) model, and contributes towards the Australian Government's efforts in monitoring geomagnetic activity, earthquake occurrences, and nuclear testing. These are fundamental to Australian obligations under the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty and to collaborative commitments with the International Real-time Magnetic Observatory Network (INTERMAGNET), Incorporated Research Institutes for Seismology (IRIS), United States Geological Survey (USGS), International Earth Rotation Service (IERS), and Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO) and reinforce the division's commitment to collaboration and the open sharing of data.
Of significance is the development of the ITRF, which provides a consistent and accurate reference frame for aligning geodetic measurements globally. This enables researchers, scientists, and organisations to collaborate effectively and share data across borders. The availability of reliable and precise geodetic data enhances our understanding of global geodynamics, climate change impacts, and the Earth's shape and rotation.
In summary, this program provides data that aids in the mapping and understanding the Earth's surface, including the movement of tectonic plates, crustal deformation, and changes in sea level. It supports various applications, such as navigation systems, mapping initiatives, and satellite positioning technologies. The program further supports Australia's efforts to protect the fragile Antarctic environment and ensure compliance with international agreements.