SAR data play a pivotal role in volcano monitoring by detecting ground deformation.
InSAR (Interferometric SAR) techniques create precise deformation maps, highlighting areas of uplift or subsidence, indicators of magma movement.These data aid in tracking volcanic activity, predicting eruptions, and assessing potential hazards. Continuous monitoring enables early warnings and informed decision-making for evacuation and disaster management.
Seismic Swarm
Mount Edgecumbe, Alaska
Location: Alaska, USA
Date(s): 2022
Spacecraft/Agency: Sentinel-1 / European Space Agency (ESA).
Credit: Copernicus Sentinel-1 data 2019, processed by ESA; courtesy R. Grapenthin, Y. Cheng, M. Angarita, AVO; photo courtesy Max Kaufman, AVO
In April 2022 a seismic swarm near Mt. Edgecumbe in southeast Alaska suggested renewed activity at this unmonitored, dormant volcano. Sentinel-1 data obtained from ASF were analyzed to assess volcanic activity by the Alaska Volcano Observatory. Beginning in 2018, surface inflation observed through ASF HyP3-produced interferometry suggests magma movement within the mountain. Analysis of seismicity recorded 25 km away confirms increased activity. The concentric colored circles in this Sentinel-1 interferogram represent this surface distention.
SAR time series sequence
About SAR time series
A SAR time series is an invaluable resource for a wide range of applications. By capturing high-resolution images of the Earth’s surface at different time points, SAR time series enable us to monitor and analyze dynamic processes and changes over time. This technology is particularly useful for tasks like land cover change detection, deformation monitoring (such as subsidence or landslides), and crop growth analysis. SAR’s ability to penetrate cloud cover and provide consistent data regardless of weather conditions makes it a reliable tool for monitoring environmental changes, urban development, infrastructure integrity, and natural disasters. Moreover, SAR time series can assist in disaster management, offering critical insights for early warning systems and post-disaster assessment. Its applications span multiple sectors, including agriculture, forestry, geology, and urban planning, making it an indispensable resource for understanding and addressing various Earth-related challenges.
Aseismic Inflation
Mt. Peulik, Alaska
Location: Alaska, USA
Date(s): 1996-1998
Spacecraft/Agency: ERS-1/ERS-2 / European Space Agency (ESA).
Credit: © ESA 1996-1998; courtesy Z. Lu et al., Journal of Geophysical Research, 107, B7, 2002.Sentinel-1 / European Space Agency (ESA).
This ERS-1/ERS-2 InSAR image shows about 17 cm (6.7 in.) of volcanic uplift centered on the southwest flank of Mt. Peulik, Alaska, which occurred during an
aseismic inflation episode from October 1996 to September 1998. Each fringe corresponds to 2.8 cm (1.1 in.) of vertical change.
Deflation
Aleutian Islands, Alaska
Location: Alaska, USA
Date: 2008
Spacecraft/Agency: ERS-2 / European Space Agency (ESA).
Credit: © ESA 2008; courtesy Z. Lu.
Okmok Volcano, in the Aleutian Islands, experienced deflation of over 50 cm (19.7 in.) during the fist 13 hours of a 2008 eruption. Each fringe, or color cycle shown here represents approximately 2.8 cm (1.1 in.) of ground movement.
