Passive seismic experiment “AniMaLS” in the Polish Sudetes (NE Variscides)

Abstract. The paper presents information about the seismic experiment “AniMaLS” which aims to provide a new insight into the crust and upper mantle structure beneath the Polish Sudetes (NE margin of the Variscan orogen). The seismic network composed of 23 temporary broadband stations was operated continuously for about 2 years (October 2017 to October 2019). The dataset was complemented by records from eight permanent stations located in the study area and in the vicinity. The stations were deployed with an inter-station spacing of approximately 25–30 km. As a result, recordings of local, regional and teleseismic events were obtained. We describe the aims and motivation of the project, the station deployment procedure, as well as the characteristics of the temporary seismic network and of the permanent stations. Furthermore, this paper includes a description of important issues like data transmission setup, status monitoring systems, data quality control, near-surface geological structure beneath stations and related site effects, etc. Special attention was paid to verification of correct orientation of the sensors. The obtained dataset will be analysed using several seismic interpretation methods, including analysis of seismic anisotropy parameters, with the objective of extending knowledge about the lithospheric and sublithospheric structure and the tectonic evolution of the study area.