The Near Fault Observatory community in Europe: a new resource for faulting and hazard studies

The Near Fault Observatories (NFOs) community is one of the European Plate Observing System (EPOS, http://www.epos-eu.org) Thematic Communities, today consisting six research infrastructures that operate in regions characterised by high seismic hazard originating from different tectonic regimes. Earthquakes respond to complex natural systems whose mechanical properties evolve over time. Thus, order understand multi-scale, physical/chemical processes responsible for faulting earthquakes occur on, it required consider phenomena intersect fields, i.e., put place multidisciplinary monitoring. Hence, NFOs are grounded on modern and infrastructures, collecting near fault resolution raw data allows generation innovative scientific products. usually complement regional backbone networks with a higher density distribution seismic, geodetic, geochemical other geophysical sensors, at surface sometimes below grade. These dense multi-parametric sensors sited around active faults, where moderate large have occurred past expected future. They continuously monitor underlying Earth instability broad time interval. Data collected each NFO results an exceptionally degree knowledge geometry parameters characterizing local geological faults their deformation pattern. novel produced aggregated EPOS made available diverse set stakeholders through Federated Specific Gateway (FRIDGE). In broader domain Solid sciences, meet growing expectations learning communication sectors hosting variety information about as phenomenon societal issue. It represents concept objective aggregating harmonising capabilities facilitate opportunity. cutting edge network conduct experiments testing multi-sensor stations, well realise robust ultra-low latency, transmission can routinely accommodate temporary monitoring densification. effort upgrade technological efficiency positions centre marketing opportunities enterprises devoted new sensor technology. constitute ideal test beds generating expertise integration, creating tools next research, routine analysis visualization. particular focus often near-real triggering alarms levels tested implemented, strengthening cooperation Agencies risk management. developed operational actions such Testing Centre Earthquake Early Warning Source Characterisation (CREW) detailed fast ground shaking damage characterization. Complementing recent growth laboratory computational models, provide interdisciplinary observations comparable describe behaviour slip vast range spatial temporal scales aiding more accurate earthquake characterizations.