2023 PyLith Hackathon report

The 3rd Pylith Hackathon was held June 12–17, 2023, at the Colorado School of Mines in Golden, Colorado with funding from the Computational Infrastructure for Geodynamics (CIG). The hackathon involved 17 participants working on 5 different projects to implement new features and create new examples for the PyLith crustal deformation modeling software. The projects included (1) spontaneous rupture using fault friction, (2) extending the poroelasticity implementation, (3) developing 2D and 3D examples involving strike-slip faults, (4) integrating PyLith with the cascading adaptive transitional metropolis in parallel (CATMIP) Bayesian inversion framework for use in studies inverting for static fault slip, and (5) adding self-gravitation using the current multiphysics formulation in PyLith. Participants learned how to navigate the PyLith code base, implement point-wise functions for governing equations and bulk and fault rheologies using the finite-element method, extend the code using the modular, object-oriented design, write examples that demonstrate how to use the new features in PyLith simulations, and implement method of manufactured solutions tests and full-scale tests. The PyLith development team benefitted from discussions with the other participants (contributors) about the technical aspects of the various projects as well as general discussions about PyLith design. The in-person format and 6-day duration allowed the groups to make significant progress. Participants appreciated the project-based organization of the hackathon and recommended that future hackathons include online meetings of the various projects before the in-person gathering to self-organize and prepare. Sarah Minson (remote) provided technical advice on the use of the CATMIP Bayesian inversion framework, and this type of participation could be expanded to allow additional technical presentations and advice on various topics in future hackathons.