The National Observatory for Astronomical and Geophysical Research in Egypt is organizing a scientific seminar on October 5, 2026, titled "Can Earthquakes be Predicted Using Specialized Satellites?" The event will feature a range of experts and specialists in earthquake science, geophysics, remote sensing, and space fields. The seminar aims to explore recent research trends related to using ground and space-based monitoring to study phenomena associated with seismic activity.
The seminar will cover various topics, including the possibility of utilizing satellite data to study changes that may precede some earthquakes. Participants will discuss the relationship between the lithosphere, atmosphere, and ionosphere. Dr. Bassem Nabawi, head of the National Observatory for Astronomical and Geophysical Research, will deliver the opening speech. Dr. Didallo Marchetti from Italy's National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology will share insights on using satellites to study the coupling between the lithosphere, atmosphere, and ionosphere before earthquakes.
Dr. Essam Ghamry from the Observatory's Ground Magnetism Laboratory will discuss the potential of space-based geomagnetic monitoring as an early indicator of earthquakes. Dr. Mohamed Saleh from the Observatory's Crustal Movement Laboratory will present on "Space Geodesy in Earthquake Science," covering principles and applications of remote sensing using interferometric space radar. The seminar will also feature Dr. Emad Kamal, who will explore the relationship between Earth's surface and sea temperature and earthquakes.
The event will include a presentation by engineer Abdullah Shaker from the Egyptian Space Agency on changes in total electron content associated with recent earthquakes in the Mediterranean region with a magnitude of over 5 degrees. Engineer Fatma Qutb from the German International University, in collaboration with Dr. Essam Ghamry, will discuss electromagnetic signatures of large earthquakes, including ground and space-based monitoring.
The seminar is part of the National Observatory for Astronomical and Geophysical Research's efforts to enhance scientific research in earthquake science and leverage recent advances in monitoring and remote sensing technologies. The event aims to support understanding of seismic activity and develop tools for monitoring and analyzing related phenomena.
Key topics to be discussed during the seminar include the use of satellite data to identify potential earthquake precursors, the relationship between the Earth's crust, atmosphere, and ionosphere, and the application of space geodesy in earthquake science. The seminar will bring together experts from various fields to share knowledge and explore new approaches to earthquake prediction.
By hosting this seminar, the National Observatory for Astronomical and Geophysical Research seeks to promote collaboration and knowledge sharing among experts in earthquake science, remote sensing, and space research. The event will contribute to the development of more effective earthquake monitoring and prediction tools, ultimately enhancing disaster preparedness and response in Egypt and beyond.
Key points
- The seminar will explore recent research trends related to using ground and space-based monitoring to study phenomena associated with seismic activity.
- Experts will discuss the possibility of utilizing satellite data to study changes that may precede some earthquakes.
- The event aims to support understanding of seismic activity and develop tools for monitoring and analyzing related phenomena.
