Recently, the German Research Centre (GFZ), in collaboration with the Iceland Volcanology Institute, made a significant step forward in volcano research. Using advanced technology – which consisted in a radar mounted on drones –, they were able to produce subsidence maps and underground tomographies of an active volcano. This achievement provided an entirely new perspective on geological structures that have been there for thousands of years.

Why is this important?

These data are crucial for understanding volcanic activities, providing detailed insights that were previously inaccessible.

The ability to bring to light new information from volcanoes – structures that play vital roles in our environment and climate – is proof of how pioneering technology continues to push boundaries that were once unimaginable to overcome.

How does the technology work?

By flying over active volcano areas, the drone enables the onboard radar to emit waves. These waves penetrate through all layers that the equipment has been trained to locate, precisely providing the data researchers were seeking:

• Images of surface structure;
• Subsidence mapsrevealing signs of past events and current subtle ground movements;
• Tomographies that allow visualization of the volcano's interiorlike never before.

It's a unique and pioneering way to glimpse the complexity and beauty of geological processes that shape our planet.

A more promising future

As we continue to push the frontiers of science and technology, collaborations between institutions like GFZ and Radaz (the developer of the drone-mounted radar) stand out as a model for the future of geological research.

Applying high-precision tools in extreme environments, such as active volcanoes, brings us closer to answers for questions never before addressed about Earth's formation and evolution, and what lies ahead.

With Radaz and partners like GFZ, unraveling more mysteries hidden beneath the Earth's surface is not an impossible task – but a challenge eagerly awaiting resolution.