Earthquake Monitoring and Response from Space: The TREMOR Concept

Abstract

Earthquakes and their after-effects claim thousands of lives and cause enormous property damage each year. Early warning of impending seismological events has the potential to reduce human suffering and physical damage resulting from these natural disasters. Reliable earthquake precursors have yet to be identified, but some research is currently being performed into phenomena that could be observable from space. Satellites have been unquestionably beneficial in the response to earthquakes, providing essential communication and remote sensing support. The Technological Resources for Earthquake MOnitoring and Response (TREMOR) concept was initially developed as a team project at the 2007 International Space University Summer Session Program. It recommends the establishment of an international non-governmental organization that can more efficiently co-ordinate space-based and ground-based resources for the protection of human lives and property. The TREMOR concept is explored further here, concentrating on its use of space technology to minimize the economic and human impact of earthquakes. Updated cost estimates for TREMOR satellite mission concepts are also presented.