Socio-Economic Benefits of Using Space Technologies to Monitor and Respond to Earthquakes

Paper number

IAC-07-E3.2.07

Author

Dr. Ray A. Williamson, Space Policy Institute, George Washington University, United States

Year

2007

Abstract

Every year throughout the world, natural disasters cause thousands of deaths and millions of dollars in property loss, not to mention serious, long term social disruption. Earthquakes and the tsunamis that may result from them are of particular concern because they generally occur with very little to no advance warning, stressing the ability of emergency services to mount adequate response. Developing countries, especially, are most affected because response services may not be widely available even in less stressful times. 

Fortunately, a wide variety of space technologies, including remote sensing; telecommunications; and position, navigation and timing; can contribute to faster, more effective response to these natural disasters. Successful use of these technologies saves lives, reduces property damage, and contributes to long term recovery from the effects of earthquakes. Recent research suggests that some space technologies, together with advanced land-based systems, may make it possible to provide advanced warning of these natural disasters. 

This paper presents the results of an International Space University (ISU) Summer Session study on the use of space technologies to monitor and respond to earthquakes. This project was carried out by an international team of space professionals as part of the International Space University’s Summer Session Program, held this year in Beijing, China. This project explored the physical characteristics of earthquakes and examined the various methods for monitoring and measuring their development and progress. It specifically examined what early warning information can be collected both by in-situ and by space systems. 

In keeping with ISU’s mission to promote international cooperation in space, especially involving developing countries, the team developed a conceptual design for an integrated global space-ground monitoring system. It also considered how this cooperative mechanism can use space systems and associated ground-based elements to assist quick response and long-term recovery from these destructive natural events. Finally, participants in this project considered the additional use of the system they propose to mitigate the destructive effects of other natural disasters, such as tropical cyclones, floods, and volcanoes. 

Abstract document

IAC-07-E3.2.07.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-07-E3.2.07.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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