Geodynamics of the Calabrian Arc area (Italy) inferred from a dense GNSS network observations

Abstract

The tectonics and geodynamics of the Calabria region are presented in this study. These are inferred by precise computation of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) permanent station velocities in a stable Eurasian reference framework. This allowed computation of the coordinates, variance and covariance matrixes, and horizontal and vertical velocities of the 36 permanent sites analyzed, together with the strain rates, and using different techniques. Interesting geodynamic phenomena are presented, including compressional, and deformational fields in the Tyrrhenian coastal sites of Calabria, extensional trends of the Ionian coastal sites, and sliding movement of the Crotone Basin. Conversely, on the northern Tyrrhenian side of the network near the Cilento Park area, the usual extensional tectonic perpendicular to the Apennine chain is observed. The largescale pattern of the GNSS height velocities is shown, which is characterized by general interesting geodynamic vertical effects that appear to be due to geophysical movement and anthropic activity. Finally, the strain-rate fields computed through three different techniques are compared.