A warm welcome to the LIAG Institute of Applied Geophysics (LIAG)
Nature study: geophysics brings clarity to the potential of natural hydrogen
![[Translate to Englisch:] Wasserstoffbild](/fileadmin/_processed_/9/d/csm_Modellgrafik_Wasserstoff_Anne-Marie_Pogoda_1300x1000_3223aa812e.png)
Natural hydrogen is considered a potential low-carbon energy source. But how much is generated underground – and how quickly? An international research team led by the LIAG Institute for Applied Geophysics in Hannover has published the first process-based estimates for the Western Pyrenees and Northern California in “Nature Communications”. The calculated production rates are lower than earlier theoretical estimates. The new evaluation method of the study allows therefore more realistic assessments and, through the open-source tool PoNHy, can be applied to other regions to identify promising geological systems more precisely and evaluate their potential.
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Knowledge and technology transfer: LIAG and terratec bring semi-airborne electromagnetics into practice
Researchers at the LIAG Institute for Applied Geophysics (LIAG) are not only advancing the geophysical method of semi-airborne electromagnetics, but are already applying it in practice. Within the German–African project SeeKaquA, funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR), LIAG, together with several partner institutions, is exploring deep groundwater systems in Namibia and Zambia. At the same time, the researchers are systematically transferring their experience from field campaigns, data processing and interpretation to terratec Geophysical Services (terratec), enabling broader industrial application of the method in the future.
Research Team Develops New Geophysical Exploration Strategies for Raw Materials in Germany
Demand for strategic raw materials in Germany is increasing significantly. In the new joint research project DESMEX-MinD, researchers from the LIAG Institute for Applied Geophysics (LIAG, Hanover), together with the Universities of Münster and Freiberg, the Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology (Leibniz-IPHT, Jena), the Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources (BGR, Hanover), the State Authority for Mining, Energy and Geology (LBEG, Hanover), and industrial partners, are further developing innovative technologies and integrated approaches for the exploration of ore deposits. The project focuses on the mining regions of the Ore Mountains and the Upper Harz.
Science meets fiction: LIAG advises Daniele Palu on new North Sea crime novel
The new crime novel Marconi und die schweigenden Lämmer by Daniele Palu (publication date: 17 April 2026, Rowohlt Taschenbuch Verlag) shows that the North Sea coast is shaped not only by harsh winds, but also by complex processes deep underground. To portray the natural characteristics of the region around St Peter-Ording as authentically as possible, the true-crime expert and journalist sought scientific support from the LIAG Institute for Applied Geophysics (LIAG) in Hanover. This is because geophysics can help to investigate processes taking place beneath the surface.
Record drilling under Ross Ice Shelf: longest sediment core offers new clues to West Antarctic Ice Sheet future
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An international team of researchers has drilled the longest sediment core (228 m) to date under the Ross Ice Shelf in West Antarctica – some 700 kilometers away from the nearest research station. The samples obtained will provide insights into times when the West Antarctic Ice Sheet melted during the last 23 million years, covering periods when the Earth was warmer and richer in CO2 than it is today. The West Antarctic Ice Sheet contains enough ice to raise global sea levels by up to five meters. Several German institutes are involved in the SWAIS2C project, and a German scientist was present during the drilling in the field.
17th North German Geothermal Conference in Hannover: Future prospects for deep geothermal energy use
The 17th North German Geothermal Conference brought together experts from science, industry and municipalities at the Geozentrum Hannover. Geothermal energy is an indispensable component of Germany’s heating transition. But how can geothermal energy from greater depths, in particular, be used even more effectively for local supply? Around 150 experts addressed this question over two days at the 17th North German Geothermal Conference at the Geozentrum Hannover.
Charged with Discovery: Heisenberg Research Group for Luminescence Dating and Data Science joins the LIAG Institute for Applied Geophysics
With the start of 2026, Dr Sebastian Kreutzer and his research group, funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) in the Heisenberg Programme, will join the LIAG Institute for Applied Geophysics (LIAG). With its expertise in luminescence-based dating methods and geodata science, the group will strengthen geophysical research at the LIAG by advancing dating methods and data-driven approaches.
