What technology did the US geological survey develop to monitor volcanic activity at the five monitoring stations in the continental US Alaska, Hawaii in the Mariana islands?
The US Geological Survey (USGS) has developed various technologies to monitor volcanic activity at the five monitoring stations in the continental US, Alaska, Hawaii, and the Mariana Islands. Some of the main technologies employed by the USGS for volcano monitoring include:
1. Seismic Monitoring: The USGS uses seismometers to measure the occurrence and intensity of earthquakes associated with volcanic activity. These instruments are capable of detecting even small ground vibrations caused by volcanic processes.
2. GPS and Satellite Data: Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers are used to monitor ground deformation and movements caused by volcanic activity. The USGS combines this data with satellite-based remote sensing techniques to create precise deformation maps.
3. Gas Monitoring: Monitoring volcanic gas emissions can provide insights into a volcano's behavior. The USGS uses techniques like MultiGAS (multiple gas analyzer system) to measure the composition and quantity of gases emitted from volcanic vents.
4. Thermal Monitoring: Thermal sensors and infrared cameras are employed to monitor volcanic hot spots and detect changes in temperature patterns. Thermal monitoring helps identify areas of heightened volcanic activity such as lava flows or increased fumarole temperatures.
5. Volcano Webcams: The USGS often installs webcams near active volcanoes to provide real-time visual data, allowing scientists and the public to observe changes in volcanic activity, including emissions, lava flows, or explosive events.
6. Ground-Based LIDAR: Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) uses lasers to generate high-resolution, three-dimensional images of the volcano's surface. It helps in mapping volcanic features, monitoring topographic changes, and assessing the potential impact of eruptions.
7. Ash Monitoring: The USGS utilizes ash monitoring networks to detect and track volcanic ash clouds. These networks use weather radars, satellites, and pilot reports to provide crucial information on ash dispersion, which is vital for aviation safety during volcanic eruptions.
These are just a few examples of the technologies developed by the USGS to monitor volcanic activity across the monitoring stations in the continental US, Alaska, Hawaii, and the Mariana Islands. The agency continually explores and utilizes innovative technologies to enhance volcano monitoring capabilities.