Integration of satellite and conventional geophysical data with tectonic and structural information over the African continent

Abstract

Data from the Polar Orbiting Geophysical Observatory (POGO) satellites over the central and southern part of the East African Rift system are examined in conjunction with other conventional geophysical data, specifically surface gravity and Project MAGNET aeromagnetic data. The effects of rifting along the Eastern Rift are clearly manifested in the geophysical data, even up to satellite altitudes (500 km). Seismic and gravity studies have previously led to a model of lithospheric thinning under the rift zone. The satellite magnetic data appear to be consistent with a rise in the level of the Curie point isotherm in this region, thus supporting such a model.