Geometries of extensional fault systems, observed and mapped on aerial and satellite photographs of Central Afar (Ethiopia/Djibouti)

Abstract

Well exposed Central Afar (Ethiopia/Djibouti) offers direct observation of a wide range of extensional structures and rift morphologies, at regional and local scale. Large Format Camera satellite photography and aerial photography was used to investigate in stereo-models phenomena of progressive extensional faulting. Representative successive fault geometries and fault evolution patterns are presented and discussed.