Continuous Seismic Observation under Extreme Environmental Conditions

Jointly with the 33rd expedition of Bulgarian Antarctica institution, the National Center of Meteorology (United Arab Emirates) installed its first broadband seismic station in Livingstone Island in Antarctica. This deployment aims to detect earthquakes, ice sheet dynamics, and volcanic activities. In addition to the exciting seismic stations on the island, the seismic installation includes two advanced seismometers, Trillium 120 and Trillium 40 (Nanometric), to accurately detect local, regional and tele seismic events.

The seismic station will be added value to the existing networks on the island as well as covering the gap analysis for more accurate data collection. In addition, since the station located near to active volcanic eruption (Deception Island), It will provide crucial data to interpret the interactions between seismic, cryosphere changes, and volcanic activities.

The project highlights continuous and reliable seismic recording in harsh polar environments. During the Bulgarian Expedition 34 (2025–2026), the data were collected and analyzed, demonstrating that there were no gaps or interruptions throughout the entire year of 2025.

The station is expected to become a vital tool for future studies, potentially integrating high-resolution seismic monitoring with glaciological and meteorological data collection. This comprehensive approach will enhance our understanding of the dynamic relationships among tectonic, cryosphere, and volcanic processes.