Remote Sensing of Dynamic Ground Motion via a Moiré-Based Apparatus

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

3-1-2026

Abstract

Highlights: What are the main findings? A Moiré-based optical apparatus enables long-range, non-contact ground displacement measurement in hazardous environments. Controlled indoor and outdoor experiments demonstrate reliable detection of dynamic and seismic-like ground motions with sub-millimeter resolution. What are the implications of the main findings? System performance is evaluated under atmospheric turbulence and wind, revealing key limits and mitigation strategies for field deployment. The proposed approach provides a low-cost, scalable complement to traditional seismic and geodetic monitoring techniques. Ground-based remote sensing of seismic and geophysical displacements remains a major challenge due to environmental hazards, signal attenuation, and practical deployment limitations of traditional seismometers. In this study, we present a detailed design, implementation, and performance evaluation of a Moiré-based apparatus for remote ground displacement measurement. The system operates by detecting fringe shifts formed between a fixed and a displaced grating, with displacement magnified through controlled angular superposition. We systematically assess each component of the system, including telescope optics, imaging sensors, and grating configurations, to optimize spatial resolution, contrast, and robustness under varying environmental conditions. A digital approach for fringe generation was employed, allowing controlled magnification and improved sensitivity without the need for physical alignment of dual gratings. Indoor experiments under low-turbulence conditions validated the system’s capability to detect displacements as small as (Formula presented.). Subsequent outdoor trials at different distances demonstrated successful measurement of both square-wave and seismic-like displacements despite increased atmospheric turbulence and wind. The results confirm the system’s ability to perform real-time, long-range, non-contact displacement monitoring with high accuracy and resilience to environmental variability. This study establishes a foundation for the application of Moiré-based sensing in challenging field conditions, including volcanic and seismic zones.

Publication Title

Remote Sensing

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