The interpretation of EIGEN-6C4 satellite gravity data detects the major structural faults and basement depth in the southern part of Jabal Nafusah, northwestern Libya

Despite the long history of petroleum exploration in Libya-spanning over 55 years-limited research has been conducted on the tectonic evolution of its southern margin within the central Mediterranean Basin.The structural framework of this region remains poorly understood, necessitating further investigation.This study utilises EIGEN-6C4 satellite gravity data from the southern region of Jabal Nafusah in northwestern Libya to identify key subsurface structures and estimate basement depths.The gravity data were analysed and converted into a geophysical model using the Oasis Montaj software to achieve these objectives.Several analytical techniques were applied, including high-pass filtering, tilt derivative (TDR), total horizontal gradient (THG), and Euler deconvolution (ED), to enhance the interpretation of subsurface features.Additionally, 2D forward modelling using the GM-SYS tool within Oasis Montaj was employed to determine the depths of gravity anomalies associated with the basement.The findings reveal fault systems with varying orientations, primarily NE-SW and NW-SE and source depths ranging from 1,200 m to 5,798 m, indicating a complex tectonic history.The integration of 3D Euler solutions with residual gravity anomalies provided more accurate locations and depth estimates for these subsurface structures.Basement depth analysis along different profiles showed variations, with Profile 1 ranging from 1.2 km to 3.53 km, Profile 2 from 1.8 km to 2.7 km, and Profile 3 from 1.7 km to 2.76 km.This study highlights the effectiveness of satellite gravity data in characterising geologically underexplored regions, offering valuable insights into the structural framework and potential resource prospects of northwestern Libya.