Worldwide standardized seismograph network

A global network of seismographs is as indispensable to seismologists as telescopes are to astronomers. The network is used to catalog the thousands of earthquakes that occur each year and to provide the data needed for detailed studies of earthquake mechanisms, deep Earth structure, and tectonic processes. Like astronomy, seismology is an observational science, and most of the scientific advances have been preceded by improvements in instrument technology. To be useful for seismic studies, new technology must be applied on a global scale. During the past two decades, there has been notable success in meeting this objective. The network that exists today (fig. 1) is a vital scientific resource. Continued innovations and improvements are needed to insure that its keeps pace with the data needs of the seismological community.