Open AccessSeafloor earthquake measurement system, SEMS IV
Author(s) -
M.R. Platzbecker,
J.P. Ehasz,
Raffaella Franco
Publication year - 1997
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Reports
DOI - 10.2172/508137
Subject(s) - seafloor spreading , submarine pipeline , geology , seismology , underwater , engineering , oceanography
Staff of the Telemetry Technology Development Department (2664) have, in support of the U.S. Interior Department Mineral Management Services (MMS), developed and deployed the Seafloor Earthquake Measurement System IV (SEMS IV). The result of this development project is a series of three fully operational seafloor seismic monitor systems located at offshore platforms: Eureka, Grace, and Irene. The instrument probes are embedded from three to seven feet into the seafloor and hardwired to seismic data recorders installed top side at the offshore platforms. The probes and underwater cables were designed to survive the seafloor environment with an operation life of five years. The units have been operational for two years and have produced recordings of several minor earthquakes in that time. Sandia Labs will transfer operation of SEMS IV to MMS contractors in the coming months. 29 figs., 25 tabs