Skip to content
Intermediate1-2 hours

Epicenter Triangulation Guide

Learn epicenter triangulation from scratch with a clear step-by-step workflow, recommended tools, safety guidelines, and expert tips.

intro labsamateur networks

Workflow

  1. Pick P and S Arrivals

    45 min

    Pick arrivals to 0.1 s on three or more stations.

  2. Compute S-P Intervals

    30 min

    Larger Δt means greater epicentral distance.

  3. Draw Distance Circles

    30 min

    Convert Δt to distance; circle each station on map.

  4. Estimate Depth and Origin Time

    30 min

    Trial depths minimizing residual misfit.

Checklist

0 / 5 completed

Loading your checklist…

Planning

Preparation

Safety

Execution

Reference Materials

S-P MethodStandard

Local Δ ≈ (S−P seconds) × 8 km for average crust — calibrate regionally.

Travel TimeFormula

Iterate depth to minimize Σ(residual²) on P arrivals.

VP/VS RatiosTable

Crustal references.

RegionVP/VSNote
Continental1.73Lab default
Subduction1.80Higher Poisson
Sediment1.70Basins
  • Measure Twice

    Double-check all measurements before committing — small errors compound across multiple steps.

  • Consistency Check

    Verify uniformity across all pieces — inconsistency is the most common quality issue.

  • Ventilation

    Ensure adequate ventilation when working with chemicals, adhesives, or heated materials.

Safety Notes

  • Amateur locations are approximate — cite uncertainty.
  • Do not alert public from single-station picks.

Explore related topics