Near Fault Observations

Near-Fault Observatories (NFOs) are specialized research infrastructures focused on monitoring complex seismogenic faults in high seismic hazard zones. As part of the EPOS Thematic Core Service (TCS), NFOs integrate multidisciplinary data—including seismological, geodetic, geological, geochemical, and satellite observations—into a unified network. Six onsite observatories deploy highly accurate sensors to track fault activity over time, enabling real-time monitoring in earthquake-prone regions. The NFO TCS provides 40 Data, Data Products, Software, and Services (DDSS) through two community portals (CREW and FRIDGE), categorized into seismological, geochemical, and geophysical data. By fostering data sharing and scientific collaboration, NFOs aim to enhance understanding of physical and chemical processes along active faults, ultimately improving societal preparedness for large seismic events.