Infrasound refers to sound waves with frequencies below 20 Hz, which are too low for the human ear to detect. These waves are produced naturally by various sources such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, storms, and meteor impacts, as well as by anthropogenic sources like industrial machinery, wind turbines, and nuclear weapons.

This program describes the ways infrasound has been observed and documented throughout history, the effects and the ways it is recorded and made audible, with a detour into the aesthetics of technological mediation of inaudible sound.

Featured Sounds: Infrasound Laboratory University of Hawaii

University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute

Leo Brady Seismic Network Sandia National Laboratories

Fundamental Resonance is a broadcast series that takes a new approach to the audition of acoustic, mechanical, and electromagnetic vibrations. This project is not just about sound, though. It's also about ways to interpret the inaudible and what things we cannot sense can reveal about the universe.

In each episode, inaudible acoustics and sonified data act as a bridge between signal and soundscape, uncovering forces that shape our environment and experience, yet are rarely perceived.

These audio essays are composed of sounds you would not normally encounter or even be able to hear. They are made up of sonic artifacts left behind by movements of energy and captured through different methods of scientific inquiry.

Fundamental Resonance is an audio supplement to the art exhibition Energy Fields: Vibrations of the Pacific. Co-presented by Fulcrum Arts and Chapman University, this exhibition runs from September 15, 2024 - January 19, 2024 as part of PST ART.

Fundamental Resonance is a production of Sam Rowell, Special Collections, Fulcrum Arts, and LOOKOUT FM. Episodes begin September 15th and will also be broadcast on terrestrial radio at KFQM-LP 101.5 FM Pacific Palisades.