Port Moresby Geophysical Observatory ~ Primary Surveillance Operations

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Monitoring

PMGO monitors seismicity of the PNG region using a nation-wide network that currently includes 13 seismograph stations ). Earthquake records are telemetered to the strategically located hub of the network, at Port Moresby, via the Telikom telephone system.

Earthquake Mapping

Using appropriate computer software, staff at PMGO determine locations and magnitudes of earthquakes in the PNG region. The results of this analysis are routinely checked against the results determined by other agencies, and re-determinations are made where necessary to reduce location uncertainties. For all felt and/or damaging earthquakes, location and magnitude data and felt effects are promptly made known to PNG government authorities and news media via Earthquake Information Bulletins.

The Observatory has established and maintains databases containing information about earthquakes that occurred in the PNG region since 1900. From these data, areas of seismicity have been defined (see map of historical earthquakes in the PNG region) and are progressively being refined as more seismic data become available.