Performance test of seismic data loggers in Antarctica

Abstract

During the winter season of the 36th Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition (JARE-36; from February 1995 to January 1996), We carried out seismic observations using data loggers (Hakusan Corp. LS-8000VF and LS-8000SH) around Syowa Station (69.0°S, 39.6°E). We did experiments to evaluate the capability of the loggers under meteorological conditions of Antarctica, such as low temperature. It was confirmed, even in the winter season, the loggers operated normally when a heater and blanket were used as protection against the cold. However, high voltage offsets and increasing input noise are seen at temperature below -40℃. In the spring and summer seasons, observations were carried out without any problems so that we could record some seismic waves. This report describes observation methods, observation results, discussions of noise levels, troubles encountered, and plans for future outdoor observations.