How the moon and sun may trigger slow earthquakes on Earth

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Published: 2026-09-29T18:01:23.891Z • Permanent link

Recent research published in the journal Nature Geoscience has shed new light on the mysterious phenomenon of slow earthquakes, which are subtle movements along fault lines that release their energy gradually over time. The study, led by Dr. Sarah Jones, a seismologist at the University of California, Berkeley, suggests that the gravitational pull of the moon and sun may play a significant role in triggering these events. According to the research, the moon's gravitational pull causes the Earth's crust to flex and stretch, creating tiny stresses that can accumulate over time and eventually lead to a slow earthquake. The sun's gravitational pull also contributes to this process, although to a lesser extent.

The study's findings are based on data from the Global Seismic Network, which monitors earthquakes around the world. The researchers analyzed data from over 100,000 earthquakes and found that many of them exhibited characteristics consistent with slow earthquakes. They also used computer simulations to model the effects of the moon's and sun's gravitational pulls on the Earth's crust. The results suggested that the moon's pull is responsible for about 20% of the energy released during slow earthquakes, while the sun's pull accounts for about 10%.

The study's findings have significant implications for our understanding of the Earth's internal dynamics and the mechanisms that drive earthquakes. Dr. Jones and her team plan to continue studying slow earthquakes and exploring the role of the moon and sun's gravitational pulls in triggering these events. Their research has the potential to shed new light on the complex interactions between the Earth's crust, mantle, and core, and could lead to new insights into the mechanisms that drive earthquakes and volcanic activity.

The discovery of the moon and sun's gravitational pulls as a trigger for slow earthquakes has significant implications for the Data Sources domain. Companies that rely on data from the Global Seismic Network, such as earthquake monitoring companies and geospatial technology firms, will need to consider the potential impact of slow earthquakes on their data and services. Research communities will also need to take into account the new findings when developing models and simulations of earthquake activity. Furthermore, policymakers will need to consider the implications of slow earthquakes for earthquake risk assessment and mitigation strategies.

The study's findings also have significant implications for the insurance industry, which relies heavily on data from earthquake monitoring companies. Insurance companies will need to consider the potential impact of slow earthquakes on their policies and premiums. In addition, the study's findings could lead to new opportunities for the development of earthquake-resistant construction materials and technologies. Companies that specialize in earthquake-resistant construction, such as steel and concrete manufacturers, could see an increase in demand for their products.

The discovery of the moon and sun's gravitational pulls as a trigger for slow earthquakes is part of a larger pattern of research into the Earth's internal dynamics. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of the Earth's core and mantle in driving earthquake activity. Researchers have also been studying the effects of tidal forces on the Earth's crust, which has led to a greater understanding of the complex interactions between the Earth's crust, mantle, and core. The study's findings are also consistent with previous research on the effects of the moon and sun's gravitational pulls on the Earth's crust, which has shown that these forces can cause subtle changes in the Earth's shape and rotation.