SLOKIN - Geokinematic Model of Slovenian Territory

The aim of the proposed project is to create the geokinematic model of active tectonic deformations in the territory of Slovenia, which is sitting in the north-eastern part of the collision zone between the Adriatic microplate and the Eurasian plate. We will use repeated GNSS observations from about 50 points obtained in the time span of 20 years, and GNSS observations from the continuously operating national reference network SIGNAL comprising 15 stations with 10-year time series of data. We will additionally use the national high-quality levelling network which was measured in two campaigns within 30 years time span, and absolute gravimetric measurements at six stations. Our dataset will be augmented with GNSS observations from continuously operating reference networks of neighboring Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia, and from EPN and IGS services. For control and verification, we will use interferometric analysis of ERS (1991 to 2003) and Sentinel-1 (from 2014 onward) radar satellite data covering our entire study area, providing dense point observations with the period of 35 days (for ERS data) and 4-5 days (for Sentinel-1). All available data will be processed according to the procedures for coordinate height and gravity computation at the specific reference epoch. The obtained coordinate sets will be used for time series creation, from which we will determine statistically significant displacements and velocity vectors of geodetic reference points. These will constitute the inputs for horizontal and vertical geokinematic model realization. The geokinematic model will be defined as a continuous nonlinear vector field of geodetic points displacements, obtained by interpolation of discrete velocity vectors of geodetic reference points. We will use statistical interpolation procedures such as least squares collocation and membrane method, which is based on the finite elements method. For most users the geodetic reference coordinate system represents the basis for determination and description of the position, which is the important attribute of all spatial data. Coordinate system has to ensure positioning of entities in space at all levels of detail and precision. The objective is therefore to realize the coordinate system, which will provide fixed coordinates for non-moving objects in space over longer period of time. The geokinematic model will enable the realization of a spatial and temporal fixed coordinate system. The static coordinate system realization can be therefore acquired by using geodetic reference points coordinate changes obtained on the basis of geokinematic model. Objective of its vertical component is to determine the most stable area of Slovenia which will then be used for normal benchmark of national levelling network stabilization. All geodetic points that will be used in geokinematic model creation will be first evaluated with respect to availability and quality of measurements, and regarding their suitability for geodynamic deformation purposes with respect to their location and physical stabilization. Geokinematic model will then be used to create a model of active tectonic deformation. We will utilize various geological and geophysical data such as geological maps, the map of active faults of Slovenia that we produce and maintain as a public service, data about historical and instrumental seismicity, estimates of long-term fault-slip rates derived from tectonic geomorphology, and paleoseismological data about the past seismogenic activity of tectonic structures. Geokinematic model and derived products like the regional strain distribution map and velocity profiles will be used to identify active tectonic structures and to quantify their seismotectonic characteristics. Geological interpretation of the geokinematic model will be used to classify the region into areas according to the degree of tectonic activity and seismic risk.