Geophysics in the tropics

Geophysics is a major research interest in the physics departments of several African universities. The reasons for this are discussed. Recent work on the Rift Valley in eastern Africa and on the equatorial ionosphere is outlined. It is shown that studies in geophysics have enabled universities in countries with newly developing economies to make serious contributions to the world store of scientific knowledge. They have promoted a strong liaison with scientists in more developed nations on the basis of a welcome interdependence. Applied geophysics is essential for economic development. In the last few years digital computers have provided a powerful new tool for the analysis of geophysical observations. In addition, space satellites have made it possible to collect large quantities of data in a short time over all parts of the Earth. Thus there has been a double revolution in geophysics: a revolution due to both the increased rate of data collection and the increased rate of data analysis. It is argued that this demands a new strategy for geophysics research, for local experiments need to be planned and interpreted in the context of larger research programs. There is a serious danger that geophysics in Africa will be reduced to a routine collection of data for interpretation elsewhere. The progress of geophysics in Africa, as a discipline worthy of university research, as a subject attractive to alert minds, and as a study of practical importance, depends on geophysicists in Africa being able to plan experiments and to interpret the results. Methods of assisting this progress are considered, including visits by experts, conferences, and the establishment of an International Center for Tropical Geophysics. It is argued that the establishment of an international center would be the most effective way to stimulate continuing geophysical research in developing countries, and that this should serve ail tropical countries, not those in Africa alone.