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At least 37 records · Page 2

Emitted short wavelength infrared radiation for detection and monitoring of volcanic activity

Thematic Mapper images from LANDSAT were used to monitor volcanoes. Achievements include: (1) the discovery of a magmatic precursor to the 16 Sept. 1986 eruption of Lascar, northern Chile, on images from Mar. and July 1985 and of continuing fumarolic activity after the eruption; (2) the detection of unreported major changes in the distribution of lava lakes on Erta'Ale, Ethiopia; and (3) the mapping of a halo of still-hot spatter surrounding a vent on Mount Erebus, Antarctica, on an image acquired 5 min after a minor eruption otherwise known only from seismic records. A spaceborne short wavelength infrared sensor for observing hot phenomena of volcanoes is proposed. A polar orbit is suggested.

Rothery, D. A.↗

Volcanic thermal features observed by AVIRIS

In July 1991, Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (AVIRIS) was flown over Mount Etna and Stromboli, Italy. Lava-filled vents were then present within summit craters of both volcanoes. Since surfaces at magmatic temperatures radiate strongly over the wavelength ranges of the AVIRIS C- and D-spectrometers, it was hoped that the data collected would reveal clear thermal signatures, even of sub-pixel sized features, as have been observed in the 1.65 and 2.22 microns bands of Landsat Thematic Mapper images. This would provide an opportunity to explore the potential of imaging spectrometers for deriving temperature distributions of hot volcanic surfaces. Such research has implications for volcano monitoring in the EOS era, and also for any future AVIRIS deployments above active lava flows, lakes, and domes, where understanding of their behavior may be advanced by detailed thermal observations.

Oppenheimer, Clive↗

NASA Tech Briefs, April 2009

Topics covered include: Direct-Solve Image-Based Wavefront Sensing; Use of UV Sources for Detection and Identification of Explosives; Using Fluorescent Viruses for Detecting Bacteria in Water; Gradiometer Using Middle Loops as Sensing Elements in a Low-Field SQUID MRI System; Volcano Monitor: Autonomous Triggering of In-Situ Sensors; Wireless Fluid-Level Sensors for Harsh Environments; Interference-Detection Module in a Digital Radar Receiver; Modal Vibration Analysis of Large Castings; Structural/Radiation-Shielding Epoxies; Integrated Multilayer Insulation; Apparatus for Screening Multiple Oxygen-Reduction Catalysts; Determining Aliasing in Isolated Signal Conditioning Modules; Composite Bipolar Plate for Unitized Fuel Cell/Electrolyzer Systems; Spectrum Analyzers Incorporating Tunable WGM Resonators; Quantum-Well Thermophotovoltaic Cells; Bounded-Angle Iterative Decoding of LDPC Codes; Conversion from Tree to Graph Representation of Requirements; Parallel Hybrid Vehicle Optimal Storage System; and Anaerobic Digestion in a Flooded Densified Leachbed.

Source record↗

NASA Tech Briefs, September 2003

Topics include: Oxygen-Partial-Pressure Sensor for Aircraft Oxygen Mask; Three-Dimensional Venturi Sensor for Measuring Extreme Winds; Swarms of Micron-Sized Sensors; Monitoring Volcanoes by Use of Air-Dropped Sensor Packages; Capacitive Sensors for Measuring Masses of Cryogenic Fluids; UHF Microstrip Antenna Array for Synthetic- Aperture Radar; Multimode Broad-Band Patch Antennas; 164-GHz MMIC HEMT Frequency Doubler; GPS Position and Heading Circuitry for Ships; Software for Managing Parametric Studies; Software Aids Visualization of Computed Unsteady Flow; Software for Testing Electroactive Structural Components; Advanced Software for Analysis of High-Speed Rolling-Element Bearings; Web Program for Development of GUIs for Cluster Computers; XML-Based Generator of C++ Code for Integration With GUIs; Oxide Protective Coats for Ir/Re Rocket Combustion Chambers; Simplified Waterproofing of Aerogels; Improved Thermal-Insulation Systems for Low Temperatures; Device for Automated Cutting and Transfer of Plant Shoots; Extension of Liouville Formalism to Postinstability Dynamics; Advances in Thrust-Based Emergency Control of an Airplane; Ultrasonic/Sonic Mechanisms for Drilling and Coring; Exercise Device Would Exert Selectable Constant Resistance; Improved Apparatus for Measuring Distance Between Axles; Six Classes of Diffraction-Based Optoelectronic Instruments; Modernizing Fortran 77 Legacy Codes; Active State Model for Autonomous Systems; Shields for Enhanced Protection Against High-Speed Debris; Scaling of Two-Phase Flows to Partial-Earth Gravity; Neutral-Axis Springs for Thin-Wall Integral Boom Hinges.

Source record↗

Quantifying mass flows at Mt. Cleveland, Alaska between 2001 and 2020 using satellite photogrammetry

Measuring eruption volume provides constraints on the magma supply rate and plumbing systems and therefore is a critical component for monitoring volcanoes. We use ArcticDEM—a large collection of time-dependent digital elevation models (DEMs) derived from satellite stereo-photogrammetry — to construct a first-of-its-kind measurement of the volumes of recent mass flows at Mount Cleveland, Alaska. We quantify the volume of the products of the 2001 eruption (the largest in the past half-century) as (54.8 ± 0.5) × 10 -6 m -3 covering a total area of 5.09 km -2 . The total volume of material loss at the summit crater is (0.67 ± 0.02) × 10 -6 m -3 , which is likely caused by later explosions and collapses of the shallow magma chamber. The total eruptive volume between 2017 and 2020 is (0.086 ± 0.002) × 10 -6 m -3 . Elevation changes associated with lahars are variable. On the upper northern slopes of the volcano, the lahar channels were almost exclusively erosive, suggesting that lahars originating at the summit eroded and entrained loose materials high on the cone. In general, lahar deposits were thickest near their toes, with some reaching ~20 m thickness.

Chunli Dai↗

Imaging a Free-Geometry Magma Reservoir Using FEM-Based Linear Inverse Modeling of InSAR Data: Application to Rabaul Caldera, Papua New Guinea

We test an innovative inversion scheme using Green’s functions from an array of pressure sources embedded in finite-element method (FEM) models to image, without assuming an a-priori geometry, the composite and complex shape of a volcano deformation source. We invert interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) data to estimate the pressurization and shape of the magma reservoir of Rabaul caldera, Papua New Guinea. The results image the extended shallow magmatic system responsible for a broad and long-term subsidence of the caldera between 2007 February and 2010 December. Elastic FEM solutions are integrated into the regularized linear inversion of InSAR data of volcano surface displacements in order to obtain a 3-D image of the source of deformation. The Green’s function matrix is constructed from a library of forward line-of-sight displacement solutions for a grid of cubic elementary deformation sources. Each source is sequentially generated by removing the corresponding cubic elements from a common meshed domain and simulating the injection of a fluid mass flux into the cavity, which results in a pressurization and volumetric change of the fluidfilled cavity. The use of a single mesh for the generation of all FEM models avoids the computationally expensive process of non-linear inversion and remeshing a variable geometry domain. Without assuming an a-priori source geometry other than the configuration of the 3-D grid that generates the library of Green’s functions, the geodetic data dictate the geometry of the magma reservoir as a 3-D distribution of pressure (or flux of magma) within the source array. The inversion of InSAR data of Rabaul caldera shows a distribution of interconnected sources forming an amorphous, shallow magmatic system elongated under two opposite sides of the caldera. The marginal areas at the sides of the imaged magmatic system are the possible feeding reservoirs of the ongoing Tavurvur volcano eruption of andesitic products on the east side and of the past Vulcan volcano eruptions of more evolved materials on the west side. The interconnection and spatial distributions of sources correspond to the petrography of the volcanic products described in the literature and to the dynamics of the single and twin eruptions that characterize the caldera. The ability to image the complex geometry of deformation sources in both space and time can improve our ability to monitor active volcanoes, widen our understanding of the dynamics of active volcanic systems and improve the predictions of eruptions.

Inverse theory↗

Imaging the Complex Geometry of a Magma Reservoir Using Fem-Based Linear Inverse Modeling of InSAR Data: Application to Rabaul Caldera, Papua New Guinea

We test an innovative inversion scheme using Green’s functions from an array of pressure sources embedded in finite-element method (FEM) models to image, without assuming an a-priori geometry, the composite and complex shape of a volcano deformation source. We invert interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) data to estimate the pressurization and shape of the magma reservoir of Rabaul caldera, Papua New Guinea. The results image the extended shallow magmatic system responsible for a broad and long-term subsidence of the caldera between 2007 February and 2010 December. Elastic FEM solutions are integrated into the regularized linear inversion of InSAR data of volcano surface displacements in order to obtain a 3-D image of the source of deformation. The Green’s function matrix is constructed from a library of forward line-of-sight displacement solutions for a grid of cubic elementary deformation sources. Each source is sequentially generated by removing the corresponding cubic elements from a common meshed domain and simulating the injection of a fluid mass flux into the cavity, which results in a pressurization and volumetric change of the fluid-filled cavity. The use of a single mesh for the generation of all FEM models avoids the computationally expensive process of non-linear inversion and remeshing a variable geometry domain. Without assuming an a-priori source geometry other than the configuration of the 3-D grid that generates the library of Green’s functions, the geodetic data dictate the geometry of the magma reservoir as a 3-D distribution of pressure (or flux of magma) within the source array. The inversion of InSAR data of Rabaul caldera shows a distribution of interconnected sources forming an amorphous, shallow magmatic system elongated under two opposite sides of the caldera. The marginal areas at the sides of the imaged magmatic system are the possible feeding reservoirs of the ongoing Tavurvur volcano eruption of andesitic products on the east side and of the past Vulcan volcano eruptions of more evolved materials on the west side. The interconnection and spatial distributions of sources correspond to the petrography of the volcanic products described in the literature and to the dynamics of the single and twin eruptions that characterize the caldera. The ability to image the complex geometry of deformation sources in both space and time can improve our ability to monitor active volcanoes, widen our understanding of the dynamics of active volcanic systems and improve the predictions of eruptions.

Inverse theory↗

Monitoring the Hazards of Silicic Volcanoes with Remote Sensing

This report details the final progress on the Solid Earth and Natural Hazards project: Monitoring of Hazards of Silicic Volcanoes with Remote Sensing (SENH99-0000-0159). The original award went to Arizona State University (ASU) with Dr. Jonathan Fink as the P.I. and Dr. Michael Ramsey as the Co-I. In May 2000, Dr. Ramsey left ASU to take a tenure-track faculty position at the University of Pittsburgh. The principle investigators and NASA Headquarters agreed to split the grant award at the HQ level and therefore avoid the double overhead charges that would arise from a university subcontract. The objectives of the science were divided, and coordinated yearly progress reports have been submitted from each University. This report details the final progress on work carried out at Arizona State. A report by Dr. Ramsey at the University of Pittsburgh has already been submitted. The work from both institutions is closely related and this report will reflect that connection.

Fink, Jonathan↗

Using Satellite Data to Characterize the Temporal Thermal Behavior of an Active Volcano: Mount St. Helens, WA

ASTER thermal infrared data over Mt. St Helens were used to characterize its thermal behavior from Jun 2000 to Feb 2006. Prior to the Oct 2004 eruption, the average crater temperature varied seasonally between -12 and 6 C. After the eruption, maximum single-pixel temperature increased from 10 C (Oct 2004) to 96 C (Aug 2005), then showed a decrease to Feb 2006. The initial increase in temperature was correlated with dome morphology and growth rate and the subsequent decrease was interpreted to relate to both seasonal trends and a decreased growth rate/increased cooling rate, possibly suggesting a significant change in the volcanic system. A single-pixel ASTER thermal anomaly first appeared on Oct 1, 2004, eleven hours after the first eruption - 10 days before new lava was exposed at the surface. By contrast, an automated algorithm for detecting thermal anomalies in MODIS data did not trigger an alert until Dec 18. However, a single-pixel thermal anomaly first appeared in MODIS channel 23 (4 um) on Oct 13, 12 days after the first eruption - 2 days after lava was exposed. The earlier thermal anomaly detected with ASTER data is attributed to the higher spatial resolution (90 m) compared with MODIS (1 m) and the earlier visual observation of anomalous pixels compared to the automated detection method suggests that local spatial statistics and background radiance data could improve automated detection methods.

Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflectio↗

Multi-Source Autonomous Response for Targeting and Monitoring of Volcanic Activity

The study of volcanoes is important for both purely scientific and human survival reasons. From a scientific standpoint, volcanic gas and ash emissions contribute significantly to the terrestrial atmosphere. Ash depositions and lava flows can also greatly affect local environments. From a human survival standpoint, many people live within the reach of active volcanoes, and therefore can be endangered by both atmospheric (ash, debris) toxicity and lava flow. There are many potential information sources that can be used to determine how to best monitor volcanic activity worldwide. These are of varying temporal frequency, spatial regard, method of access, and reliability. The problem is how to incorporate all of these inputs in a general framework to assign/task/reconfigure assets to monitor events in a timely fashion. In situ sensing can provide a valuable range of complementary information such as seismographic, discharge, acoustic, and other data. However, many volcanoes are not instrumented with in situ sensors, and those that have sensor networks are restricted to a relatively small numbers of point sensors. Consequently, ideal volcanic study synergistically combines space and in situ measurements. This work demonstrates an effort to integrate spaceborne sensing from MODIS (Terra and Aqua), ALI (EO-1), Worldview-2, and in situ sensing in an automated scheme to improve global volcano monitoring. Specifically, it is a "sensor web" concept in which a number of volcano monitoring systems are linked together to monitor volcanic activity more accurately, and this activity measurement automatically tasks space assets to acquire further satellite imagery of ongoing volcanic activity. A general framework was developed for evidence combination that accounts for multiple information sources in a scientist-directed fashion to weigh inputs and allocate observations based on the confidence of an events occurrence, rarity of the event at that location, and other scientists' inputs. The software framework uses multiple source languages and is a general framework for combining inputs and incrementally submitting observation requests/reconfigurations, accounting for prior requests. The autonomous aspect of operations is unique, especially in the context of the wide range of inputs that includes manually inputted electronic reports (such as the Air Force Weather Advisories), automated satellite-based detection methods (such as MODVOLC and GOESVOLC), and in situ sensor networks.

Davies, Ashley G.↗

(abstract) Mount Rainier: New Remote Sensing Observations of a Decade Volcano

Mount Rainier was selected as a Decade Volcano by the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior. The purpose of this selection is to focus scientific and public attention on Mount Rainier during the current decade, the United Nations-designated International Decade of Natural Hazard Reduction. The Mount Rainier science plan calls for remote sensing surveys to monitor the volcano. To date, we have conducted airborne surveys with visible and near-infrared, thermal infrared, and interferometric radar instruments. Our preliminary analysis of some night-time time-series thermal infrared survey data sets of the summit suggests that, aside from seasonal variations in snow cover, there have been no qualitative changes in the size or pattern of the summit hot spots. Day-time airborne surveys were done to record the current surface appearance of the volcano and map hydrothermal alteration in the summit region. An interferometric radar survey yielded a high-resolution digital elevation model (DEM) which serves as a base for the registration of the other remote sensing data sets. More importantly, the DEM documents the current topography of glaciers and valleys. Planned biannual radar survey of mount rainier will produce a data set from which seasonal changes in glacier and valley topography can be characterized. Such characterization is essential if we are to recognize geothermally induced changes in snow and ice cover.

infrared radar interferometry glaciers seasonal va↗

Remote sensing of volcanos and volcanic terrains

The possibility of using remote sensing to monitor potentially dangerous volcanoes is discussed. Thermal studies of active volcanoes are considered along with using weather satellites to track eruption plumes and radar measurements to study lava flow morphology and topography. The planned use of orbiting platforms to study emissions from volcanoes and the rate of change of volcanic landforms is considered.

Mouginis-Mark, Peter J.↗

Analysis of active volcanoes from the Earth Observing System

The Earth Observing System (EOS) scheduled for launch in 1997 and 1999 is briefly described, and the EOS volcanology investigation objectives are discussed. The volcanology investigation will include long- and short-term monitoring of selected volcanoes, the detection of precursor activity associated with unanticipated eruptions, and a detailed study of on-going eruptions. A variety of instruments on the EOS platforms will enable the study of local- and regional-scale thermal and deformational features of volcanoes, and the chemical and structural features of volcanic eruption plumes and aerosols.

Mouginis-Mark, Peter↗

Effects of Volcanoes on the Natural Environment

The primary focus of this project has been on the development of techniques to study the thermal and gas output of volcanoes, and to explore our options for the collection of vegetation and soil data to enable us to assess the impact of this volcanic activity on the environment. We originally selected several volcanoes that have persistent gas emissions and/or magma production. The investigation took an integrated look at the environmental effects of a volcano. Through their persistent activity, basaltic volcanoes such as Kilauea (Hawaii) and Masaya (Nicaragua) contribute significant amounts of sulfur dioxide and other gases to the lower atmosphere. Although primarily local rather than regional in its impact, the continuous nature of these eruptions means that they can have a major impact on the troposphere for years to decades. Since mid-1986, Kilauea has emitted about 2,000 tonnes of sulfur dioxide per day, while between 1995 and 2000 Masaya has emotted about 1,000 to 1,500 tonnes per day (Duffel1 et al., 2001; Delmelle et al., 2002; Sutton and Elias, 2002). These emissions have a significant effect on the local environment. The volcanic smog ("vog" ) that is produced affects the health of local residents, impacts the local ecology via acid rain deposition and the generation of acidic soils, and is a concern to local air traffic due to reduced visibility. Much of the work that was conducted under this NASA project was focused on the development of field validation techniques of volcano degassing and thermal output that could then be correlated with satellite observations. In this way, we strove to develop methods by which not only our study volcanoes, but also volcanoes in general worldwide (Wright and Flynn, 2004; Wright et al., 2004). Thus volcanoes could be routinely monitored for their effects on the environment. The selected volcanoes were: Kilauea (Hawaii; 19.425 N, 155.292 W); Masaya (Nicaragua; 11.984 N, 86.161 W); and Pods (Costa Rica; 10.2OoN, 84.233 W).

Mouginis-Mark, Peter J.↗

Multisensor Platform Deployment Proposal for International Polar Year (IPY)

High resolution thermal surveys will be acquired to quantify the thermal balance of several active, changing volcanoes which are difficult to monitor for change. Maps of the heat flow on these volcanoes will help in understanding the internal processes changing their surfaces. Correlation of heat flow with volcano deformation and seismicity will help in the understanding of this active region. Remote sensing of composition and biology of warm, bare areas will allow a better understanding of these extreme ecosystems. The thermal survey s and ancillary compositional and biological mapping will be used to focus searches on Mars for similar environments.Mars is a polar desert, much like Antarctica, and one of the few places on Mars where life could exist is in a thermal anomaly like the bare, warm ground areas on the Antarctic volcanoes. We will study the factors making these areas habitable and hone the remote sensing techniques that may be used to detect these features on Mars. Warm areas on Mars (as on the Antarctic volcanoes) are especially hospitable to humans as well, making their discovery on Mars of primary importance for human occupation.

Antarctica↗