Research Objectives:
Mount Erebus, Antarctica’s most active volcano, is a rare example of a persistently active magmatic system. This volcano, which has a history of low-level eruptive activity associated with a highly accessible summit vent complex, also features one of Earth’s few long-lived lava lakes. We will develop an interdisciplinary geophysics/geochemistry laboratory on Mount Erebus to pursue basic research on the eruption physics and associated magmatic recharge of active volcanoes. Erebus is especially appropriate because of its persistent open-conduit magmatic system, frequent eruptions, ease of access (by antarctic standards), and established scientific and logistical infrastructure, including real-time data links and relative safety.
The key integrated data-gathering components we will rely on include video surveillance and seismic, infrasound, Doppler radar, infrared, volcanic gas, and geodetic studies. To collect the data, a combination of core Mount Erebus Volcano Observatory and Laboratory (MEVOL)–supported personnel and their students (with specialties in seismology, gas studies, and general volcanology) will collaborate with internationally recognized volcano researchers (with specialties in infrared, Doppler radar, gas studies, and infrasound).
We will then develop quantitative models of the magmatic system of an active volcano, including eruptive energy balance (gravity; explosive gas decompression; and thermal, seismic, acoustic, and kinetic components) and magma recharge (volcanic tremor, convection, residence time, gas emissions, and deformation). We expect this research to contribute substantially to basic knowledge of active volcanoes around the world.
Another part of our work involves a project to develop and deploy integrated low-power, low-cost, real-time-telemetered volcano monitoring stations at Erebus and other active volcanoes. (Many volcanoes, particularly in the developing world, have little or no modern instrumentation.) The goal is to contribute to the development of low-power, low-cost interdisciplinary geophysical observatories within the larger seismology, geodesy, and geophysical communities.
Our work also includes the education of graduate and undergraduate students in volcanology and geophysics, the dissemination of information to high school audiences, and the provision of year-round monitoring information to the National Science Foundation and to McMurdo Station. Finally, to convey the excitement and societal relevance of volcanology and other aspects of earth science, we expect to continue public outreach through lectures, media interaction, and inquiry response.
