NASA Captures Stunning Satellite Image of Iceland's Volcanic Eruption
In an awe-inspiring feat, NASA has captured a breathtaking satellite image of Iceland's latest volcanic eruption. The image, taken by the Operational Land Imager-2 (OLI-2) aboard the Landsat 9 satellite, shows red-hot lava oozing from the eruption site, accompanied by a thick plume of smoke and gas.
Details of the Eruption
The eruption occurred on the Reykjanes Peninsula, specifically from a fissure in the Sundhunkur crater series. This marks the seventh volcanic eruption in the area within a year, highlighting a period of heightened volcanic activity in Iceland.
The lava flow has already crossed major roads and is inching closer to Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most popular tourist destinations. Despite the dramatic scenes, flights to and from Iceland remain unaffected, according to NASA's Earth Observatory.
What Makes the Image Unique?
The satellite image is a composite of natural color photography combined with infrared signals to distinguish the lava's heat signature. This technique highlights the glowing rivers of lava against the dark terrain, showcasing the raw power and beauty of nature.
Update on the Volcanic Activity
- The Icelandic Meteorological Office has reported steady eruptive activity, with the lava primarily flowing east and southeast toward Fagradalsfjall.
- The lava field near Fagradalsfjall has slightly expanded and thickened.
- Volcanic tremors remain stable, indicating consistent activity at the eruption site.
Subsidence rates around Svartsengi, a geothermal field, have reduced significantly, providing some relief to nearby regions.
What Is a Fissure Eruption?
This eruption is classified as a fissure eruption, a type of volcanic activity where magma flows through a fracture or fissure in the Earth’s crust. When this fracture intersects with the surface, it results in lava flows rather than explosive eruptions.
Interestingly, the Reykjanes Peninsula was dormant for 800 years until volcanic activity resumed in 2021, marking the beginning of a new era of frequent eruptions.
Iceland: A Hotspot of Volcanic Activity
Iceland is home to 33 active volcanic systems, more than any other European nation. Located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet, Iceland is a hub for earthquakes and eruptions.
Volcanologists warn that the increased volcanic activity signifies a new phase of geological evolution for the region, with more eruptions expected in the future.
Conclusion
NASA’s satellite image not only provides a stunning visual of Iceland's volcanic eruption but also emphasizes the importance of advanced technology in understanding natural phenomena. As Iceland enters a new era of volcanic activity, the world watches in awe and curiosity, marveling at the power of nature and the tools we have to study it
Refernce from:- https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/nasa-captures-satellite-image-showing-red-hot-lava-oozing-from-icelands-volcanic-eruption-7130468