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Crustal Dynamics One of our primary objectives is to work interactively with a code Virtual California, which is a simulation of all the major interacting faults in California. We compute the space-time patterns of tensor stresses, strains, displacements, and other variables in a 3-dimensional earth model as a function of space and time. We would like to be able to visualize these data in 4 dimensions and to interact with the relevant fields on-the-fly as a means of analysis and understanding. For example, visualization of tensor fields in the CAVE may reveal space-time correlations and patterns that are not readily apparent from standard plots and diagrams, and thereby may suggest new avenues for research. Simulation-based approaches to forecasting and prediction of natural phenomena have been used with considerable success for weather and climate. When carried out on a global scale these simulations are referred to as General Circulation Models. Turbulent phenomena are represented by parameterizations of the fluid dynamics, and the equations are typically solved over spatial grids having length scales of tens to hundreds of kilometers. In a similar vein, we propose to simulate earthquakes over a >106 year period to lay the basis for numerical forecasting technology. Virtual California is composed of 650 fault elements, each of which has a width of 10 km and a depth of 15 km, therefore there is no depth dependence in the slip fields. Current analysis methods rely on static, 2-dimensional visualizations and imaging. However, a variety of increasingly complex methods of analysis will be needed as resolution of the models moves to smaller spatial scales. Eigenpattern analysis of spatial fields reveals the embedded space-time correlations in activity in the simulation. A variety of interactive methods will be needed as depth dependence as introduced, and the corresponding patterns become more complex. Here the CAVE will play a major role, allowing us to walk through our data and perceive the underlying patterns far more directly than is currently possible.
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