Ugur Guven, GD Goenka University
B. S. Satyanarayana,
Ugur Guven, Prof. Dr., GD Goenka University
Earthquakes are fundamental geological phenomena that have persisted since Earth’s formation, serving as natural mechanisms for reshaping the planet’s surface. However, their occurrence near densely populated urban areas, particularly along fault lines, poses significant risks to human life and infrastructure. Earthquakes exceeding a magnitude of 6.0 on the Richter scale are especially destructive, with the extent of damage contingent on geographic conditions and the resilience of local civil structures. Recent catastrophic earthquakes in Turkey’s Middle Anatolian region have underscored the critical need for advanced earthquake detection and disaster recovery strategies. The frequency and severity of natural disasters appear to be increasing. In 2022, there were more than 380 such incidents, resulting in the loss of over 30,000 lives and causing economic damages exceeding $200 billion. The earthquakes in Turkey, Syria, and Morocco in 2023 have already claimed over 65,000 lives and led to economic losses exceeding $100 billion. To address this challenge, the integration of space-based technologies offers a promising approach to monitoring seismic activity and managing its aftermath.
This study proposes a three-pronged strategy leveraging university-developed CubeSats for earthquake detection, disaster mapping, and recovery assistance. Research indicates that prior to significant seismic events, fluctuations occur within specific bands of the electromagnetic spectrum in the upper atmosphere. Numerous studies have suggested the existence of specific precursors, which, based on statistical analysis, may precede large seismic events. One of the primary antecedents is the interaction between the lithosphere and the ionosphere, which has been identified as a potential precursor to major earthquakes. This relationship is often observed through the presence of anomalous electromagnetic radiation in the atmosphere before significant seismic occurrences. This phenomenon is commonly referred to as the Lithosphere-Atmosphere-Ionosphere Coupling (LAIC) hypothesis, which posits that seismic activity can influence atmospheric and ionospheric conditions. Another key predictor identified in seismically active regions is the fluctuation of land surface temperatures, which has been shown to vary in the lead-up to major earthquakes. These temperature anomalies, observed in proximity to fault zones, provide further evidence of the complex environmental changes that may precede large seismic events.
These anomalies provide an opportunity for early earthquake detection. By deploying CubeSats equipped with calibrated electromagnetic sensors at specific altitudes in low Earth orbit (LEO) and in highly elliptical trajectories, it is possible to continuously monitor these electromagnetic disturbances in earthquake-prone regions. The data collected can then be analysed to establish correlations between atmospheric electromagnetic fluctuations and impending seismic activity, potentially enabling the development of an early warning system.
In addition to electromagnetic monitoring, CubeSats can be outfitted with high-resolution optical and infrared (IR) cameras to enhance their utility for disaster management. These sensors can provide critical real-time imagery for damage assessment and support the coordination of search and rescue operations by identifying the most affected areas. Such multi-functional capabilities enable CubeSats to serve as vital tools for disaster mitigation and recovery efforts. Moreover, the deployment of CubeSats dedicated to disaster response ensures continuous situational awareness for authorities, facilitating the efficient allocation of resources and personnel to impacted regions. Several studies have demonstrated the efficacy of remote sensing technologies and satellite imaging in locating survivors and assessing damage during disaster scenarios. The compact and cost-effective nature of university-funded CubeSats makes them an ideal platform for achieving these objectives, particularly in resource-constrained settings.
It can be stated that integrating electromagnetic anomaly detection, high-resolution imaging, and IR-based monitoring into a single CubeSat platform can provide a multifaceted solution for earthquake-related challenges. This paper advocates for the adoption of university-funded CubeSat missions as a budget-conscious and scalable solution for earthquake monitoring and disaster response. By integrating electromagnetic sensing, high-resolution imaging, and advanced remote sensing technologies, CubeSats can provide a comprehensive, real-time approach to mitigating the devastating impacts of earthquakes and enhancing disaster resilience. This paper also is based on an existing project that has been started in India by using a CubeSat for earthquake precursors detection and work is underway to make the Cubesat and it is expected that the launch will occur in early 2027 at the latest.