DYNAMICS OF FLUIDS IN THE SOUTH CASPIAN BASIN

Abstract

The spectral analysis of the TERRA-ASTER satellite image of the Caspian Sea surface revealed the active fluidal dynamics in underwater mud volcanoes and fault zones. The images clearly show the mass release of hydrocarbons registered as hydrocarbon films on the sea surface and changes in water transparency. This cataclysm is related to the seismic, mud-volcanic and solar activation at the end of 2000-beginning of 2001. The South Caspian region experienced several strong earthquakes (M up to 6.8) and a record-breaking number (15) of mud-volcanoic eruptions at that time. The decrease in the seismic and fluid intensity was synchronous, which is reflected in a self-cleaning of the Caspian Sea water column. This resulted in degradation of the hydrocarbon film in a few months.