SCIENCE  HIGHLIGHTS  -  SEPT / OCT  2004

Taylor Given Medal for Geological Analysis of Satellite Geophysical Data
“Excellence Medal for Earth Sciences” is from World Mineralogy Organization

Pat Taylor was invited to attend the first-ever topical meeting “The First International Mineralogy Days of Monaco” on September 15-17, 2004. He gave a paper on “Contribution to the study of regional magnetization by satellite magnetic measurements: Magsat, Orsted and Champ (with gravity field)” (see abstract and figure below). He was also the recipient of a medal given for the first time ever by the Organisation Mondiale de Mineralogie (the World Mineralogy Organization):  the First Prize – “The Excellence Medal for Earth Sciences”. The award was for  his geological analysis of satellite geophysical data and demonstrates the high esteem with which Taylor’s work is regarded overseas.


Taylor (right) and the first  “Excellence Medal for Earth Sciences” 

Contribution to the study of regional magnetization by satellite magnetic measurements: Magsat, Ørsted, and Champ (with gravity field).
     A discussion of and introduction to satellite-altitude geopotential field studies and their interpretation with emphasis on results from metalliferous regions will be given. The magnetic and gravimetric measurements from satellite altitudes show heterogeneity in deeper parts of the lithosphere. These patterns of magnetic anomalies do not only reveal the largest iron ore deposits such as Kiruna, Sweden, Kursk, Russia, and Banugi, Central African Republic but also linear features indicating structural discontinuities. We record changes of magnetic amplitude of these patterns that are caused by intersecting transverse fractures localizing magmatism and concentration of metals in the upper crust. In addition satellite altitude data are related to variations in crustal thickness and heat flow. Deep-rooted structural discontinuities, defined by combination of geological and geophysical criteria, with spacing of several hundred kilometers, reveal a quite uniform pattern in the deeper parts of the lithosphere. As these structures provide favorable pathways for the ascent of heat, magmas and ore-forming fluids, their recognition is of crucial importance and can be used in the compilation of a new type of mineral prognosis map. An example from Europe includes a pattern of east west trending structural discontinuities or belts and their junction with the NW-trending Tornqvist-Teisseyre Zone.                                
Contact:  Patrick Taylor, GSFC, Code 921, Patrick.Taylor@nasa.gov