The solid Earth is constantly subjected to forces that tend to produce changes both on its surface and within its interior. These include tides, surface loads due to mass redistribution, internal disturbances such as convective motions, and stresses caused by earthquakes. Studying the Earth's response to these perturbations reveals its internal structure and the rheological nature (elastic or viscoelastic) of its components across a wide range of time scales—from the Chandler wobble period (~14 months), to millennia (glacial isostasy), and even millions of years (internal dynamics).
This line of research employs both classical and modern methodologies dedicated to studying the deep interactions between the solid and fluid parts of our planet and other terrestrial planets. It leverages traditional and satellite geodetic data as well as geological observations. Special attention is given to the study of sea level variations based on in situ and satellite data, and their interpretation within a geodynamic context.