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Researchers recently visited two parks in Utah to monitor the health of some of the state's iconic natural arches. Examinations of the spectacular Mesa Arch showed that the famous structure is in no imminent danger of collapse, according to a new study. The researchers used a new technique that involves "listening" to the natural vibrations of the arch with seismometers. (Images credit: Jeff Moore.) [Read full story about how scientists eavesdropped on the arches]
A popular picture
A new study listened in on the vibrational "hum" from Mesa Arch, one of the most photographed natural structures in Utah.
While Mesa Arch (in Canyonlands National Park) is safe from collapse, more than 40 arches in another Utah park — Arches National Park — have collapsed since 1977.
A big draw
Arches, such as Mesa Arch, are a large tourist attraction for visitors to Utah.
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No need to worry
Although a crack is visible in this photo of Mesa Arch, researchers found no evidence of worrisome damage to the structure.
Taking the tech
The researchers used portable seisomometers to investigate the health of Mesa Arch in Utah.
Longterm lessons
Mesa Arch was measured nine times over the course of about 18 months. The initiative could be the start of a wider monitoring program in the region.
Lesson in listening
The seismometer method of "listening" to the vibrations of Mesa Arch borrows from techniques used to monitor the structural health of buildings and human-made bridges.
What does an arch say?
This is a readout from "listening" to the inside of Mesa Arch with a seismometer.
Elizabeth Howell was staff reporter at Space.com between 2022 and 2024 and a regular contributor to Live Science and Space.com between 2012 and 2022. Elizabeth's reporting includes multiple exclusives with the White House, speaking several times with the International Space Station, witnessing five human spaceflight launches on two continents, flying parabolic, working inside a spacesuit, and participating in a simulated Mars mission. Her latest book, "Why Am I Taller?" (ECW Press, 2022) is co-written with astronaut Dave Williams.
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