Researchers Explore Use of Thunder for Seismic Imaging

A team of scientists at Penn State University is investigating the use of thunder as a means to gather seismic data about the Earth's interior. Seismic waves, which travel at varying speeds depending on the geological composition they encounter, provide insights into the Earth's structure. Traditionally, this data is collected from natural seismic events like earthquakes or through artificial means such as explosives. The Penn State researchers propose that thunder, which generates seismic signals known as 'thunderquakes,' could serve as an alternative source for seismic imaging. They have developed a model to interpret these complex signals and applied it to reconstruct the geological features beneath their campus.