The Greek oceanographic vessel AIGAIO of the state-run Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR) is set to embark on a mission to the earthquake-stricken region of Santorini-Amorgos, in the coming days, aimed at deepening the understanding of the ongoing seismic activity in the area.
A large team of scientists will be on board the vessel, equipped with the newly acquired state-of-the-art research instruments, who will conduct extensive research on the causes of the continuous earthquakes shaking the Cyclades over the last few weeks.
The expedition will focus on collecting geological, geophysical, geochemical, and oceanographic data. Researchers will conduct detailed seabed mapping to identify structures related to underwater fault activity, potential submarine landslides, and the stability of underwater slopes.
High-resolution seismic imaging will be used to analyze fault systems that may have been activated by recent seismic disturbances, while deeper seismic profiling will provide insights into fault geometry at depths exceeding one to two kilometers beneath the seabed.
Additionally, oceanographic measurements will assess parameters such as temperature, turbidity, and salinity, alongside detecting concentrations of radioactive elements like radon. These findings will help determine whether increased fluid or gas emissions from underwater faults are occurring in the region.
The AIGAIO’s research voyage is part of the “Athena vs. Enceladus” project, funded by the Hellenic Foundation for Research and Innovation.
The initiative aims to investigate and map active submarine faults in the broader South Aegean region, contributing to a better understanding of their seismic potential.
