Abstract: We present a new method of integrating Global Positioning System (GPS) and accelerometer data for high-rate seismogeodesy. This method is based on the GPS variometric approach which can obtain seismic waves in real time using only the readily available broadcast products and a single receiver. Collocated 1-Hz GPS and 200-Hz accelerometer data from the 2016 M-W 7.8 Kaikura earthquake were analyzed to verify the effectiveness of this method. Results reveal that this method can provide broadband and more accurate velocities and displacements qualified to detect P wave arrivals. Moreover, this method can effectively avoid the aliasing problem present in the 1-Hz GPS waveforms. We therefore conclude that this new method can be a powerful tool to capture seismic waves in real time, which is crucial for the purpose of tsunami early warning and earthquake rapid response.

Plain Language Summary The last decade has witnessed great contribution of high-rate Global Positioning System (GPS) to earthquake studies. Dense GPS monitoring networks have proliferated in recent years, with outstanding examples such as UNAVCO's PBO (Plate Boundary Observatory) and Japan's GEONET (GPS Earth Observation Network). However, further promotion of GPS applications on earthquakes is still confronted with challenges because GPS remains a sensor with relatively low bandwidth and high noise level. In the current study, we present a new method of integrating GPS and seismic data which takes full advantage of the complementary characteristics of GPS and seismic instruments. Previous seismogeodetic combination methods use the technique of relative positioning or precise point positioning, while this study uses the GPS variometric approach which is more advantageous for real-time positioning. Using this method, seismic signals can be accurately determined at the order of 0.3-0.4mm/s for the velocities and a few centimeters for the displacements. Moreover, the bandwidth has been expanded to cover both static offsets and extremely high frequency signals. This study is of great values for the purpose of tsunami early warning, earthquake rapid response, and geoscience studies.

Cite this article as:

Shu Y, Fang R, Geng J, Zhao Q, Liu J (2018) Broadband velocities and displacements from integrated GPS and accelerometer data for high-rate seismogeodesy. Geophys. Res. Lett. 45, doi: 10.1029/2018GL079425