While some scientists are busy studying Alaska’s Augustine Volcano, as it erupts and sends a plume of ash more than 40,000 feet into the air, others are busy recording rumblings at the volcano’s surface with the instruments on the ground.
Besides information on Pacific rim, the data collected will also provide new insights into the inner workings of volcanoes. Including Augustine, across the continent, scientists have placed permanent, continuously recording GPS stations on volcanoes. Scientists are affiliated with EarthScope–a vast North American geologic observatory, which is funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF).
Kaye Shedlock, program director for EarthScope at NSF said, “Capturing episodes of volcanic unrest like the one at Augustine will lead to a better understanding of volcanic processes, as well as improved natural-hazard response and mitigation efforts.’
Via: Science Daily