Speaker
Description
We present the results of a gravimetric study conducted in the Sos Enattos mining site (northeastern Sardinia), an area identified as the Italian site for the potential underground installation of the Einstein Telescope (ET), a third-generation gravitational wave detector.
Currently, the ET project is in its preparatory phase, with efforts focused on performing feasibility studies for selecting the optimal installation site. It must meet strict geological and environmental criteria, the most critical being minimal anthropogenic and seismic noise.
To contribute to this effort, we applied the gravimetric method through both airborne and ground-based surveys. For the airborne survey, we employed the iCorus strapdown gravity sensor by iMar, covering the region near the Lula municipality in the Nuoro province. This survey aimed to acquire high-spatial-resolution gravity data and map the area's subsurface geological features. Additionally, using a Scintrex CG-6 spring-type gravimeter, a ground-based gravimetric survey was conducted at the Sos Enattos mining site to provide reference data for the airborne measurements. Both terrestrial and aerial data were referred to the absolute value of the gravity acceleration measured in the Sos Enattos area with the Microg LaCoste FG5#238 absolute gravimeter. Additionally, high accurate Airborne Lidar Surveys and GNSS ground reference points were acquired for improving the topographic correction and precisely georeferencing the gravimetric dataset.
Our findings provide new insights into the geological characteristics and allow to refine the geoid model in the Sos Enattos area, contributing to the assessment of its suitability for hosting the ET infrastructure.
