Date of Award

2025-08-01

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Geophysics

Advisor(s)

Julien Chaput

Abstract

This study investigates the generation and modulation of ambient seismic noise in arid environments, with a focus on aeolian processes such as saltation, wind shear, and precipitation events. Using a dense array of three-component seismic nodes co-located with meteorological sensors and a novel particle transport instrument (SANTRI), high-frequency seismic signatures were examined within the Jornada Experimental Range in southern New Mexico. Time-frequency analysis reveals that wind-driven saltation events produce measurable seismic energy enhancements, particularly within the 100-300 Hz band, with clear spectral distinctions between wind-only forcing and particle-laden transport. Additionally, rainfall events were identified by elevated seismic amplitudes in the absence of particle activity, while several unexplained seismic anomalies displayed localized energy bursts not associated with any known environmental driver. These findings highlight the sensitivity of ambient seismic monitoring to surface processes in desert settings and underscore the potential for seismic arrays to detect subtle interactions between atmospheric forcing and granular surface dynamics. The results also suggest that site-specific factors, such as sediment availability and surface moisture, play a critical role in modulating seismic responses, opening new avenues for environmental seismology in non-tectonic contexts.

Language

en

Provenance

Received from ProQuest

File Size

63 p.

File Format

application/pdf

Rights Holder

Alexis Hernandez

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