LDEO Cosmogenic Dating Group

 

The LDEO Cosmogenic Dating Group, applies terrestrial cosmogenic nuclides as chronometers and tracers in the Earth Sciences. Terrestrial cosmogenic nuclides are produced by interactions between secondary cosmic rays and near surface rocks. Our research interests cover a wide spectrum of earth scientific disciplines and include timing of ice ages, subglacial erosion rates, uplift rates of Pleistocene terraces, and a better understanding of the production systematics of cosmogenic nuclides. The group is led by Joerg Schaefer and currently consists of two other PIs, two PhD students, two master’s students and a laboratory manager. Our capabilities include the routine extraction of 10Be, 26Al, and 36Cl. In cooperation with the LDEO noble gas group (Gisela Winckler, link), we also routinely measure cosmogenic 3He. Recently, we have pioneered the terrestrial 53Mn technique as new monitor of earth surface processes, and we also have established an extraction line for in situ 14C from quartz.