The Indian Network for Detecting Radon Anomaly signal for Seismic Application

Area of Science:

• Geophysics
• Environmental Science
• Seismology

Background:

• Earthquake prediction remains a significant scientific challenge.
• Ground radon exhalation is being investigated as a potential earthquake precursor.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a network for monitoring radon anomalies across the Indian subcontinent.
• To investigate the correlation between radon signals and seismic events.

Main Methods:

• Deployment of 100 Bhabha Radon Observatory for Seismic Application (BhaROSA) systems near active fault lines.
• Continuous monitoring of radon exhalation with data transmission to a central server.
• Post-processing of data to filter meteorological noise and isolate radon anomalies.

Main Results:

• Persistent radon anomalies detected days to months prior to major earthquakes.
• Correlation observed between rare radon signals and rare seismic events in low-activity zones.
• Insights into spatial and temporal radon signal responses before and after seismic events.

Conclusions:

• The INDRA-SA network provides valuable data for understanding earthquake nucleation processes.
• Radon anomaly detection shows promise for enhancing earthquake predictability.
• This initiative represents a significant advancement in seismological research.