CyCLOPS: A Novel Strategic Research Infrastructure Unit for Continuous Integrated Spaced-based Monitoring of Geohazards

Cyprus, being located on the Mediterranean fault zone, exhibits a unique geodynamic regime since
\nits tectonic evolution is driven by the interaction of the Eurasian and the African plate. Besides its
\nseismological interest, Cyprus exhibits many active landslides and slope instabilities in areas of steep
\ntopography that pose an imminent threat for entire settlements, critical infrastructure, and cultural
\nand natural heritage landmarks. To address these challenges, a novel strategic research infrastructure
\nunit, abbreviated CyCLOPS, is being developed and established by Cyprus University of Technology in
\ncooperation with the German Aerospace Agency (DLR). CyCLOPS will utilize novel space technologies,
\nincluding cutting-edge European space missions, such as Galileo, Copernicus Sentinel and TerraSAR-X
\nalong with state-of-the-art processing techniques to monitor the effects of geohazards, such as earthquakes
\nand landslides, and assess their impact on the built environment and cultural heritage landmarks.
\nThe latter will be achieved by the robust and continuous estimation of ground deformation
\nand its velocity gradients at a national and regional level. The determination of deformation will be
\ncarried out by means of novel integrated GPS/GNSS and SAR techniques, rendering Cyprus a dedicated
\ncalibration and validation site for European space missions.