Isabelle Susman L&S Biological Sciences
Tiny bubbles, Big Secrets: Revealing Magma Storage Depths in Ta'u
To protect communities from volcanic hazards, it is crucial to understand the magmatic system that feeds magma (molten rock) toward the surface. Determining the depth of magma storage helps interpret seismic unrest. Seismic activity arising from the depth where magma is thought to be stored may indicate an imminent eruption. A good knowledge of magma storage depths can also guide the placement of geophysical monitoring systems to get the best advanced warning possible of an eruption.
Ta’u island, American Samoa, sits above an active volcanic hotspot, and last erupted in 1886 AD. In 2022, an earthquake swarm occurred on the island, but with no seismometers, it was impossible to interpret if this swarm was indicative of an eruption. We aim to determine the depth of magma storage underneath Ta’u, American Samoa, by examining fluid inclusions trapped within olivine crystals from samples retrieved from the study area. By determining the density of the fluid inside the crystals, pressure and thus depth of formation of these inclusions can be found. This research can inform safety & volcanic hazard prevention systems that could save the lives of the island’s 380 inhabitants.
Message To Sponsor
I greatly appreciate the opportunity to be able to study such an interesting and important topic. I feel that this fellowship will allow me to gain viable research experience and propel me further in my career as an earth scientist. I think this project is vital, and opens up research pathways for future understudied volcanic areas, allowing for potentially life saving research to be conducted.