July 17, 2025 — UAS pilots prepare for flights over Halema‘uma‘u eruption site within Kaluapele

USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists prepare for a UAS (uncrewed aircraft systems) flight at Kīlauea summit on July 17, 2025. UAS flights are conducted for aerial views into the north vent within Halemaʻumaʻu and to characterize volcanic gas emissions during eruptive pauses, UAS flights are conducted with the permission of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park and contribute to the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory's mission to monitor active volcanoes in Hawaii, assess their hazards, issue warnings, and advance scientific understanding to reduce the impacts of eruptions. Unauthorized launching, landing, or operating of a UAS from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service is prohibited under 36 CFR Closures & Public Use. USGS photo by K. Mulliken.