Finding solutions to complex problems in the fields of glaciology, geophysics, and data analysis.
In the business of problem solving
Aesir Consulting LLC provides specialized near-surface geophysical investigation and subsurface characterization services to support public works, infrastructure, and environmental projects. The firm integrates geophysical data with geologic and hydrogeologic interpretation to reduce uncertainty, assess risk, and support engineering decision-making.
Aesir Consulting is led by Dr. Joel Brown, a Ph.D.-level geophysicist with over a decade of experience delivering applied geophysical solutions for mine lands, infrastructure, environmental systems, and critical facilities.
Aesir Consulting is led by Dr. Joel Brown, a Ph.D.-level geophysicist with over a decade of experience delivering applied geophysical solutions for mine lands, infrastructure, environmental systems, and critical facilities.
Aesir Consulting delivers
Advanced geophysical analysis typically found in academic or national lab settings
Practical, field-proven solutions tailored to engineering and environmental projects
Clear communication bridging science and infrastructure decision-making
Some Past Projects
Borehole GPR tomography to map mine related voids below a residence in far northeastern Montana
High resolution Gravity survey of the historic Ellis mine repository site near Crestline, Kansas
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey of abandoned coal mines in Eastern Montana
GPR and EM surveys to locate buried cars and UST in northwestern Montana
Electrical Resistivity Tomography surveys to identify hazards related to abandoned coal mines near Sand Coulee, MT
Workshop for USGS employees on collecting and processing GPR data for glacier studies
Measuring water content of ice in the ablation zone of the Greenland Ice Sheet with inversion of GPR data constrained by borehole measurements
Constraining depth/density profiles in firn through optimization of common offset GPR
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Borehole GeophysicsAesir uses borehole GPR to find subsurface voids at depths that surface measurements cannot reach. Tomographic borehole surveys are able to map 2D variations in EM propagation velocity between boreholes. By repeating these surveys over different hole combinations, Aesir produces 3D models of voids, allowing for targeted remediation with minimal surface disruption. This technique can also be used to detect voids under existing structures.
In 2026, Aesir is acquiring a borehole GPR system that will allow us to investigate depths up to 150 m (~490 ft). |
Geophysical Methods
GravityGravity surveys are great for finding large scale variations in subsurface density. This is a wonderful technique for identifying the extent large voids.
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Electrical Resistivity TomographyAmong other applications, ERT is excellent for void detection in areas with high conductivity.
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MASW
Active seismic surveys known as MASW (Multi-channel Analysis of Surface Waves) measure the seismic velocity structure of the subsurface. These surveys are integral for conducting site-specific seismic response analysis.
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GPR
Ground penetrating radar (GPR) is one of the most useful techniques of characterizing the shallow subsurface. Survey and processing time is relatively fast, making GPR a good choice for large areas where ground conductivity is low.