er ing a new 
gathering 
3 
ir planet. 
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ested for 
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elengths 
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^ Satellites, 
se 
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ovements 
11 require 
chniques to 
ents will 
be essential to understanding global tectonics. They will also form a 
basis for determining the effects of sea floor spreading and plate tec- 
tonics on continental masses. This information will be essential for 
prediction and possible control of some geologic hazards and will serve 
to improve our understanding of the occurrence of mineral deposits. 
A passive satellite called LAGEOS was launched on May 4, 1976, 
that will permit intercontinental measurements within the required 
limits of precision. 
Global Measurements of the Earth's Magnetic Field 
During the past 5 years, the U.S. Geological Survey and NASA 
Goddard Space Flight Center have cooperated in the analysis of presently 
available satellite magnetometer data. The principal objective of this 
project has been the identification of anomalies having geological sig- 
nificance. Additionally, these data are used in fulfilling our Federal 
responsibility for supplying geomagnetic information for use in 
navigation, charting, and as a reference in geophysical prospecting. 
Even though the presently available satellite magnetometer data are 
not particularly suited for analysis of geological anomalies, the work 
done in this project indicates the potential for a satellite magnetometer 
as a geological/geophysical tool. Recently, a preliminary global mag- 
netic anomaly map has been produced by analysis of this satellite data 
(Regan and others, 1975). Verification of several distinct anomalies was 
obtained by examining detailed satellite data and by comparison with 
available aeromagnetic and geologic data. One of the most striking 
anomalies occurs in central Africa. This anomaly, termed the Bangui 
anomaly, was discovered by satellite and confirmed by aircraft measure- 
ments. A detailed interpretation of this anomaly indicates that it is 
caused by a massive, complex regional geological body that has several 
associated major mineral deposits. 
The global map reveals that the Bangui anomaly is not unique and 
indicates that such studies using satellite data could have a significant 
application to energy and mineral studies on continental or global scales. 
However, to have practical application it is necessary to obtain measure- 
ments from satellites that are designed for such studies. A global 
survey, proposed by the USGS, using a vector magnetometer in a low- 
altitude satellite would provide the necessary data for such applications 
and also establish dense global coverage required for improved 
geomagnetic reference field models and charts. 
Operational and experimental meteorological satellites, operated by 
the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the 
Department of Defense, also provide useful resources information. 
21