Archive · 19 May 2025
NASA Uses Satellite to Detect Volcano Eruption Signals via Tree Changes
Imagine volcanoes are like sleeping giants.
Sometimes, they wake up!
Scientists are using satellites to watch trees, because when volcanoes start to wake up, they release a gas called carbon dioxide that makes trees grow lusher and greener.
By looking at the trees from space, scientists can spot these changes, which helps them know a volcano might erupt soon.
This gives people time to get ready and stay safe.
Scientists studied volcanoes in places like Panama and Sicily to learn how to spot these changes.
This can save lives!
NASA is using satellite data to monitor tree leaf changes as an early warning system for volcanic eruptions.
The method relies on detecting increased tree growth caused by volcanic carbon dioxide emissions.
Scientists are collecting tree samples and measuring gas levels near active volcanoes to confirm the method.
Early detection of volcanic CO2 has been shown to save lives through evacuation.
The technique is being tested in regions with many active volcanoes.
- Who
- NASA scientists in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution, volcanologists, and climate scientists.
- What
- NASA scientists are using satellite data to detect early signs of volcanic eruptions by monitoring tree leaf changes.
- When
- Research ongoing, with initial studies and field work in 2025.
- Where
- Remote, volcanically active regions globally, including Panama, Costa Rica, and Sicily.
- Why
- To develop an early warning system for volcanic eruptions by detecting volcanic carbon dioxide emissions before eruptions.
Limitations
Advantages
Effectiveness
Limitations
Some limitations exist, such as environmental noise and difficult terrain.
Advantages
This can reinforce existing early warning systems and has the potential to save lives.
- Satellite Technology
- Landsat 8, Sentinel-2, Terra
- Key Researchers
- Josh Fisher, Nicole Guinn, Florian Schwandner, Robert Bogue
- Location of Study
- Panama, Costa Rica, Mount Etna (Sicily)
- Method
- Monitoring tree greening from space to detect volcanic CO2 emissions
- Benefit
- Early warning system for volcanic eruptions
- Previous Success
- Mayon volcano eruption (Philippines) - 2017; saved over 56,000 lives