This repository contains the methodology, calculations, and visualizations for performing geodetic strain analysis on the Iranian Plateau. The project uses GPS velocity observations and finite difference methods to compute strain tensors, strain invariants, and principal strains, ultimately producing maps of crustal deformation and strain ellipses.
The Iranian Plateau lies at the collision zone of the Arabian and Eurasian tectonic plates. Continuous crustal deformation makes this region an important case study for: - Understanding tectonic processes
- Assessing earthquake hazards
- Mapping active deformation patterns
This project quantifies crustal deformation by calculating strain tensors on a regular grid, using GPS velocity data from 399 stations.
- Computation of strain tensors from geodetic data\
- Weighting scheme combining distance and station clustering (Voronoi-based)
- Calculation of strain invariants, principal strains, and rotation rates
- Visualization of:
- Normal strain maps
- Shear strain maps
- Strain invariants maps
- Principal strain maps
- Strain ellipses
- Grid Definition: 24°--43°N, 40°--64°E with 0.25° spacing
- Finite Difference Method: Solves for strain tensor components (εxx, εyy, εxy) and rotation (ω)
- Weighting:
- Distance weighting using a Gaussian function
- Clustering weighting using Voronoi diagrams
- Strain Invariants & Ellipses: Principal strains and ellipse orientations derived using eigenvalue analysis
- Normal and shear strain distribution across the Iranian Plateau
- Principal strain orientations and magnitudes
- Strain ellipses visualizing crustal deformation