Regionalized Velocity Models in Central Asia
Abstract
We have developed regional velocity models to improve the location of small seismic events near the central Asian test sites. Specifically we have used seismograms recorded by International Monitoring System (IMS) stations, along with ISC and Calibration Event Bulletin (CEB) travel-time information, to generate velocity profiles extending radially from the Lop Nor Test Site; the best coverage is for the path to the northwest through the Semipalantinsk Test Site to, at the far end, the station BRVK. Most available crustal models developed for central Asia have a P velocity of 8.0 km/s; whereas the velocity profiles developed put P(sub n) in the range of 8.3-8.4 km/s. Predicted travel times of P-waves traveling to the northwest of Lop Nor using these various models all yield negative residuals on the order of 2-6 seconds, suggesting these models are slower than the actual regional velocity structure. Hence, we examined a model for the Siberian Craton, the path over which these waves travel. The modified Leith model (Langston, 1998) has a Moho velocity of 8.3 km/s, closer to the velocities we found. Applying this model results in smaller travel-time residuals (0.5 sec. < t) rather than the 2-4 sec. residuals using the IASPI model, suggesting this model is more appropriate for the region. Similarly, a more appropriate model has been developed for paths to the NE and SE of Lop Nor, with a moho velocity of 8.26 km/s.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA525549
Entities
People
- Bradley B. Woods
- Chandan K. Saikia
- Gene Ichinose
- Hong K. Thio