East Antarctica magnetically linked to its ancient neighbours in Gondwana

We present a new magnetic compilation for Central Gondwana conformed to a recent satellite magnetic model (LCS-1) with the help of an equivalent layer approach, resulting in consistent levels, corrections that have not previously been applied. Additionally, we use the satellite data to its full spectral content, which helps to include India, where high resolution aeromagnetic data are not publically available. As India is located north of the magnetic equator, we also performed a variable reduction to the pole to the satellite data by applying an equivalent source method. The conformed aeromagnetic and satellite data are superimposed on a recent deformable Gondwana plate reconstruction that links the Kaapvaal Craton in Southern Africa with the Grunehogna Craton in East Antarctica in a tight fit. Aeromagnetic anomalies unveil, however, wider orogenic belts that preserve remnants of accreted Meso- to Neoproterozoic crust in interior East Antarctica, compared to adjacent sectors of Southern Africa and India. Satellite and aeromagnetic anomaly datasets help to portray the extent and architecture of older Precambrian cratons, re-enforcing their linkages in East Antarctica, Australia, India and Africa.

Automated summary

This study presents a new magnetic compilation for Central Gondwana using an equivalent layer approach based on a recent satellite magnetic model (LCS-1). By utilizing both satellite and aeromagnetic data, the research reveals the geological structures of India and Central Gondwana. The study also identifies wider orogenic belts in interior East Antarctica that retain remnants of Meso- to Neoproterozoic crust, compared to neighboring regions in Southern Africa and India.