Annual visit by Junior College physics students to the SMRG

A group of Physics students attending Junior College recently visited the Seismic Monitoring and Research Group (SMRG) within the Department of Geosciences as part of their Systems of Knowledge programme. The visit provided students with a first-hand look at seismic monitoring in Malta and an insight into how geophysics contributes to the understanding of natural hazards.

During the visit, Dr Matthew Agius showed the students the seismology laboratory, showed the operations of the Malta Seismic Network, real-time earthquake monitoring system, tsunami modelling and the instrumentation used to conduct different types of geophysical studies. The session also highlighted ongoing geophysical research carried out by the department, as well as undergraduate study opportunities in geosciences. The visit concluded with a stop at one of the seismic stations located on the University campus, allowing students to see how seismic data are collected in practice.

The annual visit forms part of the Junior College Seismic Monitoring Group, an Enrichment Programme Unit coordinated by Mr Alexander Vella, and offered valuable support to students who will be incorporating this experience into their Systems of Knowledge projects. The Department of Geosciences looks forward to continuing its collaboration with Junior College in promoting scientific outreach and interest in Earth sciences.