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Steven Cohen visited the US Geological Survey / University of Memphis Center for Earthquake Research and Information (CERI) in Memphis, TN on June 4-6 to discuss a number of seismo- tectonic problems of mutual interest. Cohen worked with colleagues, Dr. Susan Ellis (herself a visiting scientist from the New Zealand Insti- tute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences) and Dr. Joan Gomberg (CERI) to develop the initial aspects of a model of crustal deformation in the Taupo Volcanic Zone (TVZ). The thin lithosphere of this region is characterized by extensive active volcanic and extensional faulting and hydrothermal activity. Thus, the seismic model must take into account brittle failure, ductile flow, and fluid migration. Dr. Cohen also presented a seminar on crustal deformation in southcentral Alaska, near the site of the magnitude 9.2, 1964 Great Alaska Earthquake. Dr. Cohen and his colleagues from the University of Alaska have analyzed GPS, VLBI, tide gauge, leveling, and paleo-seismogical data to develop a comprehensive understanding of this convergent plate boundary (see figure left). |
As a result of this visit, Dr. Cohen was asked and has agreed to serve on a panel for the National Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program that will review proposals on earthquake hazards in the Eastern and Central US.
The figure above is one version of an output plot from AKMAP, a program designed to display a variety of geodetic, seismic, and tectonic data in southcentral Alaska. This plot shows topography, crustal faults, earthquake epicenters, and geoid heights, which are used in deriving crustal uplift from GPS and historic leveling data.
Contact: Steve Cohen, GSFC, Code 921 (Steven.C.Cohen@nasa.gov)
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Responsible NASA official: Dr. Herbert Frey