An aeromagnetic survey of the Norwegian Sea

An aeromagnetic survey of the marine area from 20°E to 15°W and 60°N to 73°N has been completed. Total intensity and residual intensity contour charts show the presence of a linear magnetic pattern paralleling the mid-oceanic ridge in the Norwegian Sea. The aeromagnetic charts are supplemented by bathymetric and shipboard magnetometer data. The linear magnetic anomalies are interpreted in terms of sea-floor spreading. Correlation of observed profiles with a theoretical model study indicate separation of Greenland from Norway about 60 to 70 m.y. ago with possibly three distinct periods of spreading. Several fracture zones are defined in the survey area, as is the NE extension of the Great Glen and Minch faults of Scotland.