What is Quake Shake?
Quake Shake is a new programme launched by the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies (DIAS) and Geological Survey Ireland. It's an initiative to create a community of 'citizen seismologists' across Ireland. The programme aims to engage people of all ages in the study of seismology. Seismology is the study of earthquakes and seismic waves that travel through and around the Earth.
How does Quake Shake work?
At the heart of Quake Shake is a
nationwide network of Raspberry Shake seismometers. These internet-connected devices enable real-time monitoring of both local and global seismic activities. Whether it's detecting low-magnitude earthquakes in Ireland or significant tremors from distant corners of the world, the Raspberry Shake is an inexpensive seismometer perfect for classrooms, offices or individual citizen scientists.
Quake Shake will also use seismic data from the
Irish National Seismic Network (INSN) to develop teaching resources and to provide engagement with current seismological research in Ireland.
But we don't have earthquakes in Ireland, do we?
Yes, we do! Around 20 earthquakes are detected in Ireland every year, with the maximum magnitude being 2.5 on the Richter scale. That's not big enough to do damage but they certainly do occur.
Can I get Involved?
More information on how to become a citizen seismologist and how to join the Quake Shake community is available by emailing
info@quakeshake.ie.
Image: Raspberry Shake seismometer