Improved resolution across the Global Seismographic Network: A new era in low-frequency seismology

Abstract

The Global Seismographic Network (GSN)—a global network of ≈150 very broadband stations—is used by researchers to study the free oscillations of the Earth (≈0.3–10 mHz) following large earthquakes. Normal‐mode observations can provide information about the radial density and anisotropic velocity structure of the Earth (including near the core–mantle boundary), but only when signal‐to‐noise ratios at very low frequencies are sufficiently high. Most normal‐mode observations in the past three decades have been made using Streckeisen STS‐1 vault seismometers. However, these sensors are no longer being manufactured or serviced. Candidate replacement sensors, the Streckeisen STS‐6 and the Nanometrics T‐360GSN, have been recently installed in boreholes, postholes, and vaults at several GSN stations and GSN testbeds. In this study, we examine normal‐mode spectra following three M w "> M w 8 earthquakes in 2021 and from one M w "> M w 8.2 earthquake in 2014 to evaluate the change in GSN low‐frequency performance on the vertical component. From this analysis, we conclude that the number of GSN stations capable of resolving normal modes following M w "> M w 8 earthquakes has nearly doubled since 2014. The improved observational capabilities will help better understand the radial velocity and density estimates of the Earth.