Banda Aceh, June 24 – The Master of Physics Program, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA), Syiah Kuala University (USK), successfully conducted a Field Camp and Research Data Analysis activity in Ie Seum, Aceh Besar, on June 21–22, 2024.
This two-day event was part of the program’s research-based learning curriculum, designed to provide students with hands-on experience in field observation, environmental measurement, and data analysis, particularly in the areas of environmental physics, instrumentation, and geophysics. Participants included master’s students, accompanied by faculty members and technical staff.
Core Activities
1. Hot Spring Water Analysis (Instrumentation Team)
Students conducted field measurements of temperature, pH, conductivity, and ionic content using advanced portable instruments. The activity aimed to strengthen understanding of hydrothermal processes and their potential role in renewable energy exploration.
2. Passive Seismic Learning (Geophysics Team)
The team installed seismometers to record ambient noise (natural seismic waves) and trained participants in spectral interpretation and subsurface structure analysis. These methods are essential for understanding geological stability and assessing potential geothermal zones.
3. Additional Geophysical Surveys
Complementary surveys were carried out using geodetic GPS for topographic mapping and Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR) to investigate subsurface conditions, providing integrated insights into the earth’s physical and geological characteristics.
According to Prof. Dr. Muksin, S.Si., M.Si., M.Phil., Head of the Master of Physics Program at USK, this field camp represents a tangible implementation of field-based scientific learning.
“The Field Camp encourages students to directly understand geophysical phenomena and the potential of renewable energy in Aceh. It also enhances research skills, teamwork, and multidisciplinary data analysis — competencies that are crucial both in academia and the professional world,” he explained.
This initiative aligns with USK’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- SDG 4 (Quality Education): By promoting experiential and interdisciplinary learning.
- SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy): Through the study of geothermal and renewable energy potential.
- SDG 13 (Climate Action): By fostering awareness of climate-related geophysical processes and sustainable environmental management.
- SDG 15 (Life on Land): By encouraging responsible exploration of natural resources with minimal ecological impact.
The Field Camp strengthens the vision of the USK Master of Physics Program to produce highly competitive graduates, especially in the fields of energy research, disaster mitigation, and sustainable environmental technology development.
The success of this activity underscores USK’s role as a pioneer in applied physics education that is responsive to local potentials and global sustainability challenges, contributing both to regional development and Indonesia’s broader SDG agenda.
Contact Information:
📧 Email: fisika@usk.ac.id
📧 Email: magisterfisika@fmipa.usk.ac.id
News Tags: #Geophysics #RenewableEnergy #FieldResearch #USKInnovation #PhysicsForSustainability #MasterOfPhysics #PhysicsDepartment #SDGs #SustainableEducation