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.
Workshop in Hanover: Exchange on initial data and planning of future campaigns
Dr Wiebke Mörbe and Dr Raphael Rochlitz, geophysics researchers at LIAG, therefore invited their project partners Alex Wilhelm and David-John Adams from terratec to LIAG’s main site in Hanover in spring. The focus was on organising further field campaigns and discussing the evaluation of existing data – from acquisition and data processing to inversion. This exchange is essential: terratec plans to fully integrate the method into its portfolio this year.
The team discussed the results of the geophysical survey and hydrogeological sampling campaign in the Cuvelai–Etosha Basin (CEB) in northern Namibia. In three regions, survey profiles spanning several kilometres were recorded, providing insights into the subsurface down to depths of around 800 metres and thus into the the dimensions of the aquifer system.
“Companies that we involve from start to finish can generate a great deal of knowledge and make valuable contributions to key topics such as the exploration of groundwater resources in arid regions. As a research institute, we aim to ensure that geophysical methods are not only developed but also applied,” says Dr Raphael Rochlitz, project lead of SeeKaquA and geophysicist at LIAG.
Data analysis using the open-source tool custEM
A key component is understanding how to analyse the data using the open-source tool custEM. This freely accessible platform, developed at LIAG by Rochlitz, was jointly applied using the data collected in Namibia, deepening knowledge and enabling discussion of challenges. According to the project team, direct technical exchange is particularly valuable in processing and inversion, as many steps can only be fully understood in the practical context of a real field campaign.
David-John Adams, who works for terratec in Namibia, emphasises this: “The most challenging aspect is understanding all steps of data processing and inversion.” Alex Wilhelm, geophysicist at terratec in Germany, agrees. The measurement system is also a central focus: the team is currently developing a new “bird” within the project, which will be towed by a drone. “At the same time, we continuously discuss obstacles and further development of the measurement system, not least because the system has to operate under extreme environmental conditions. Both aspects are essential for future field campaigns that we aim to offer for a range of applications.”
Embedding transfer from the outset
The expertise developed at LIAG also feeds into other projects beyond SeeKaquA. One example is the OGER project on optimised groundwater exploration near Hamburg, in which both institutions are also partners.
“In a geophysical exploration method, there are always components – both technical and in data analysis – that can be transferred to industry and the private sector. This is a key objective we pursue,” explains Rochlitz. At the same time, research continues on various aspects: “There are always components or operational strategies that must be continuously improved within research – usually concerning data quality, data resolution and realistic, feasible logistics.”
Field campaign planned for June 2026
SeeKaquA demonstrates how applied geophysical research not only generates new insights but also strengthens the transfer into practice. A further field campaign is planned in southern Zambia from 8 to 27 June 2026.
Background information
The German–African project is led by LIAG. The consortium includes the University of Namibia, the University of Zambia, the SADC Groundwater Management Institute, the Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources (BGR) and terratec Geophysical Services. The project is funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) with €1.3 million.