This article describes satellite technologies being developed that might be able to spot the signs of an impending quake days or weeks before it strikes, giving the public and emergency planners time to prepare. One method, Interferometric-Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR), uses interference patterns between two radars to detect changes in elevation. Other methods involve infrared sensors to detect changes in heat flow and low frequency magnetic signals. Both the infrared and magnetic methods of quake detection are controversial. For now InSAR seems to be a safer bet for earthquake forecasting. All three, however, offer a possibility that someday the local weather report will forecast not only the storms above us, but also the ones brewing beneath our feet. The site is enhanced by photographs, scientific illustrations, and a streaming or downloadable audio narrative.
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