AISD Forum | Unlocking the Arctic Geophysics in Security, Geopolitics, and Resource Exploration

The AISD Forum 🤖 ⋂ 🛡️ (AI, Security & Defense) cordially invites you to a special public presentation by Dr. Madeline Lee (SINTEF) on the dual-use role of geophysics across emerging industrial and defense applications. This event is a part of AISD's Fall '24 series on "Arctic Security".
Speaker: Dr. Madeline Lee (SINTEF)
Date: 14 November 2024
Hosts: Phil Tinn & Olivia Houck
Abstract: Geophysics aims to understand the physical processes and properties of the Earth and surrounding space environment through field data acquisition and quantitative methods for analysis. Geophysics often employs non-invasive methods, including remote sensing, to map both the Earth’s surface and subsurface. Advancement in geophysical- and remote sensing is strongly linked with technology developments within the defense sector. For example, high-resolution airborne magnetic sensing used in anti-submarine warfare during the Second World War is now a cornerstone in natural resources mapping, such as mineral exploration. Conversely, geophysics contributes to the development of novel innovations, including machine learning techniques to detect complex subsurface objects, navigation in GPS-denied environments, and the development of instruments for harsh environments. Accordingly, hardware and techniques used in geophysical surveys may be considered dual use, from autonomous platforms (aerial and underwater drones) to the high-resolution yet low weight and power consumption of contemporary geophysical instruments. Beyond the technology, important components to physical scientific studies are locating historical sites, mapping environmental conditions, and often working with remote and indigenous communities. Therefore, with complex discussions on sustainable development and geopolitics in the Arctic, physical scientists such as geophysicists play a key role in bridging the gap between the technology, the environment, and local communities.
About: the AISD Forum is a collaborative initiative built with the support from the MIT Alumni Association (Norway, France & Germany) and SINTEF. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in the material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SINTEF Foundation and MIT.