TCC's Seismic Earthwatch Program

The Geophysical Sciences Department maintains a Sprengnether SS-19 Seismometer. The sensor is emplaced approximately 230 feet beneath ground surface. We are a federally recognized seismic station and operate for the benefit of our students and the Hampton Roads community. We are the only seismic station on the Virginia/North Carolina Coastal Plain.

Many seismic events from around North America register on our device as well as many that no other stations seem to pick up. Most of the events are localized (within 40 kilometers of the Beach campus) and occur between 0800hrs and 1500hrs. Many of these are probably related to human activity as opposed to natural events.

If you experience one of these or have questions, please call us at (757) 822-7189.