Analysing pre-earthquake magnetic and ionospheric anomalies using Swarm satellite data: Findings from the February 6, 2023, Pazarcık, Türkiye earthquake


Özsöz İ., ANKAYA PAMUKÇU O.

Advances in Space Research, vol.75, 2025 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 75
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.asr.2025.01.014
  • Journal Name: Advances in Space Research
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, Aerospace Database, Artic & Antarctic Regions, Communication Abstracts, Compendex, INSPEC, MEDLINE, Metadex, Civil Engineering Abstracts
  • Keywords: Seismic precursors, Ionospheric anomalies, Magnetic field variations, Swarm satellite data
  • Dokuz Eylül University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This study explores magnetic anomalies and ionospheric changes (Ne, Te, Vs) linked to the February 6, 2023, Pazarcik earthquake in Türkiye, covering August 2022 to May 2023. By leveraging Swarm satellite data during ionospheric quiet periods and employing mathematical techniques including first time derivative calculations, removal of long-wavelength components, and application of a moving RMS filter, the research generated and analysed cumulative anomaly count graphs for these parameters. The findings reveal several key insights: notable fluctuations in the X component of the magnetic field emerged approximately six weeks before the main shock, while a shift in the cumulative anomalies of the Y component was observed starting December 15 and persisted until the earthquake. Preparatory signs in the Z component of the magnetic field were detected two months before the main event. Multi-track analysis of magnetic field components displayed S-shaped anomaly patterns, suggesting an approaching critical state. The study also identified that the earthquake preparation phase, as indicated by Ne, Te, and Vs measurements, began between mid to late December, with specific deviations and patterns observed in each parameter. Recovery phases following the seismic events were noticeable in most data sets. These results emphasize the importance of continuous monitoring and sophisticated data analysis in seismic research, suggesting that validating these findings with additional physical parameters and confutation analysis is essential for confirming the anomalies observed. The study enhances our understanding of the relationship between seismic activities and geophysical anomalies and offers potential advancements in earthquake prediction and analysis.