One of the many obstacles for hopeful settlers is the need for power and heat on these barren landscapes. Some geologists and other scientists theorize that geothermal energy may be the answer.
3D visualization of the Utah FORGE project in Utah, USA.
Circulation Experiments at Utah FORGE: Bear-surface seismic monitoring reveals fracture growth after shut-in
March 12, 2024 by Peter Niemz Geothermics 119 (2024) 102947
Map view and the location of the Utah FORGE project
Recently published in Geothermics, this paper by Peter Niemz et al. of University of Utah Seismograph Stations (UUSS) describes seismic observations from the circulation tests at Utah FORGE in July 2023 using only the regional (near-)surface network of the UUSS. The analysis provides a detailed picture of deep subsurface process. Observations indicate fracture growth and a complex interplay of seismic and aseismic responses in closely located volumes of the geothermal reservoir. Additionally, this work points out some remaining challenges regarding creating fluid pathways between injection and production wells in basement rock, that will be addressed in the upcoming phase of the Utah FORGE project.
Read the full paper HERE
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