Work

GeoPrior1D: An application for generating 1D geological and geophysical realizations of the subsurface

Year: 2026

Type: software-paper

Abstract: GeoPrior1D is an open-source tool for generating ensembles of one-dimensional (1D) geological and geophysical models that explicitly represent prior models for probabilistic inversion. Instead of relying on analytical prior expressions, GeoPrior1D defines priors through a probabilistic generator that produces random 1D realizations consistent with user-specified geological rules. These rules capture conceptual understanding of subsurface architecture — such as geological successions, layer thickness distributions, lithology–resistivity relationships, and groundwater levels corresponding to different geological settings. The resulting ensemble forms a statistically defined prior model that can be directly used in probabilistic inversion or uncertainty analysis. GeoPrior1D includes a graphical interface for configuration and visualization. It outputs reproducible HDF5 files and is implemented in MATLAB and Python under the MIT license. Together, these elements provide a transparent and flexible framework for linking geological knowledge with quantitative geophysical modeling.

Source: SoftwareX

DOI: 10.1016/j.softx.2026.102654

Authors: Jesper Nørgaard, Rasmus Bødker Madsen, Ingelise Møller, Thomas Mejer Hansen, Anne-Sophie Høyer

Institutions: Geological Survey of Denmark and Greenland, Aarhus University

Language: English

Topic: Geological Modeling and Analysis

Subfield: Geochemistry and Petrology

Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,200

Funder: Innovationsfonden