Seismic Ambient Noise Imaging and Monitoring of Shallow Structures

This proposal is focused on the characterization of the structure and its eventual temporal variations at the uppermost crust based on the analysis of the background seismic vibrations (ambient noise) and using a dense network of seismic nodes providing unprecedented spatial resolution. As the amount and characteristics of the seismic ambient noise is dependent on anthropogenic factors, it is important to document the applicability of ambient noise methods in zones with low and high levels of anthropogenic activity. In the first case, we have selected a relatively undisturbed environment, the Cerdanya Neogene sedimentary basin in the eastern Pyrenees. The seismic nodes array that will be deployed in the basin is expected to provide detailed 3D images of the structure of the uppermost crust levels. In the second case, we will focus on areas as active mining sites and the city of Barcelona. An important aspect of the proposal refers to scientific dissemination, as we seek to involve educational centers in the city to participate in the project by offering their premises to install the instruments. On exchange, students in those centers will be trained in the use of seismic instruments and the first analysis of the data, in an attempt to catch their interest on seismology and Earth Sciences in general.