Geology

From the Earth’s development history, composition, and structure to the distribution and properties of rocks, as well as groundwater resources, raw materials, and geogenic natural hazards.

GeoSphere Austria collects, interprets, and archives geoscientific data for Austria. Its core tasks include geological mapping, the assessment of geogenic natural and environmental hazards, as well as the identification of national potential in areas such as renewable energy, groundwater resources, and exploitable mineral resources.

Our experts make their specialised knowledge available in the form of geological maps and models. These serve as a foundation for infrastructure planning, climate change adaptation, and the sustainable use of natural resources. In the service of science and society, we promote a better understanding of Austria’s geology while making an important contribution to the safety, resilience, and quality of life.

Selection from the field of geology:

State Survey

A central task of GeoSphere Austria is the national geological and geophysical survey, as set out in Section 4(3) of the GSA Act. This involves systematically recording, analysing, documenting and presenting the geological and geophysical conditions in Austria, including aspects such as geothermal energy, raw materials, groundwater, mass movements and near-surface subsurface exploration (e.g. for archaeological applications).

Collections

Our collections of fossils, minerals, rocks and sediment cores support researchers to dive deep into Earth’s history, aid in mapping natural resource availability and provide policy makers with data for informed decision-making regarding e.g. land use planning.

Gravitational mass movements

Landslides, rockfalls, rockslides and rock avalanches can cause major damage to buildings and infrastructure. As a result, they endanger people’s living space and economic existence.

Water as a Resource

Water is a valuable asset whose importance is steadily increasing. It is an irreplaceable resource, particularly as drinking water, but also essential for agriculture, industry, commerce and tourism.

Mineral Resources

As the foundation of our modern society, mineral resources play a central role in the path to a climate-neutral Austria.

Renewable Energies

Geothermal energy, Solar energy and Wind power are essential components of the path to a climate-neutral future as renewable energy sources.