An optimization method for paleomagnetic Euler pole analysis

Owing to the axial symmetry of Earth’s magnetic field, paleomagnetic data only directly record latitudinal and azimuthal positions crustal blocks in past, paleolongitude cannot be constrained. An ability overcome this obstacle is thus fundamental importance paleogeographic reconstruction. Paleomagnetic Euler pole (PEP) analysis presents a unique means recover such information, but prior implementations PEP method have incorporated subjective decisions into its execution, undercutting fidelity rigor. Here we present an optimization approach that addresses some these deficiencies—namely objective identification change-points small-circle arcs together approximate apparent polar wander path. We elaborate on our novel methodology conduct experiments with synthetic demonstrate performance. furthermore methods both as adaptable, stand-alone scripts Python streamlined interactive workflow can operated through web browser.