The Photonic Seismology Lab,
Tel Aviv University
The Photonic Seismology Lab,
Tel Aviv University
We are an applied seismology group, leveraging Distributed Fiber Optic Sensing (DFOS) to answer questions about the deep and shallow structure of the Earth, subsurface processes that take place deep beneath our feet, and the seismic “noise” generated by anthropogenic activities. We use geophysical and array processing approaches to extract the most from DFOS measurements, whether by using existing infrastructure or specially deployed cables in boreholes or underwater.
Research topics:
1. Behavior of low-magnitude earthquakes
By repurposing abandoned boreholes with DFOS, we record tiny earthquakes and study their properties. We are also developing better ways to combine DFOS and inertial measurements, to resolve some of the symmetry issues due to fiber-optic sensing.
2. Waveform inversion with DFOS
The spatio-temporal resolution of DFOS opens up a whole new world in source and structural inversions. We are currently working on new FWI objective functions using native DAS measurements and fully utilizing both temporal and spatial continuity.
3. Ambient noise
How can we leverage the high density of DFOS to image the subsurface without active sources? We are currently focusing on unconvential DAS acquisition geometries
4. Traffic monitoring
DFOS is a poweful tool in urban environments - but it is even better when coupled with cameras for training.
5.Diffraction imaging
Deep or shallow, we are developing better ways to image diffractions - with traditional sensors and DFOS
Team
We combine expertise in inverse theory, seismology, geophysical imaging, ambient noise interferometry, and geology.
Publications
Read our latest publications on Distributed Acoustic Sensing, microseismic monitoring, and near-surface geophysics.
Microseismic Event Location with Dual Vertical DAS Arrays: Insights from the FORGE 2022 Stimulation
This study explores how accurately microseismic events can be located using two vertical DAS boreholes at the FORGE geothermal site. A modified source-scanning algorithm incorporating P- and S-wave arrivals generates probability density functions to assess location uncertainty. The results show that event depth can be determined reliably, but horizontal positions remain poorly constrained, primarily due to array geometry. Synthetic tests reveal that borehole depth strongly controls the size of uncertainty, while their number and placement shape its spatial pattern. These findings demonstrate that monitoring array design is critical for improving microseismic localization using vertical DAS systems.
News & Updates
Stay informed on our latest research highlights, lab milestones, and upcoming events in geophysics and Distributed Acoustic Sensing.
Lab Members Awarded Prestigious Scholarships
Two members of the Photonic Seismology Lab at Tel Aviv University received major distinctions in 2025.
Eyal Shimony was awarded the Aiden Foundation Award for Excellence in Teaching for his outstanding contribution to geophysics education, and Jonathan Levy received the Dr. Rafi Katzman Memorial Scholarship in recognition of his academic excellence and research in fiber-optic seismology.
Photo Gallery
Discover highlights from our fieldwork, conferences, and award ceremonies showcasing our journey in geophysics and seismic research.
