CIG Training Session for Modeling of Long-Time Scale Geodynamics

Chair: Michael Gurnis (Caltech)
Instructors: Walter Landry (CIG) and Eh Tan (CIG)

The EarthScope program and data from the US Array and PBO allow an extraordinary opportunity to better understand Earth dynamics. An important component of interpreting such data is the use of computational methodologies to simulate tectonic processes. In this training session, the Computational Infrastructure for Geodynamics (CIG), an NSF center, will focus on open-source software that simulate tectonic and geodynamics processes on long-time scales.

Specifically, we will provide training in the use of the Gale and CitComS software packages. Gale is a 2D/3D parallel code that solves problems in orogenesis, rifting, and subduction with a variety of boundary conditions, including free surfaces and coupling to surface erosion models. CitComS is a finite-element code designed to solve thermal convection problems relevant to Earth's mantle, and runs on a variety of parallel processing computers, including shared and distributed memory platforms.

During the session, participants will be given background theory, an overview of the codes including their strengths and weaknesses for solving geodynamic problems, and instruction on downloading and running these codes (including running them on the NSF TeraGrid), and post-processing (visualizing) the results. As time permits, the workshop will also cover how to implement new rheologies and custom surface processes in Gale.

Some financial support is available for workshop participants; preference given to graduate students and post-docs.

March 20: Registration is now closed for the training session.

The EarthScope National Meeting 2007 will be held in Monterey, CA, at the Portola Plaza Hotel. For more information, see EarthScope National Meeting 2007.