Photo and Video Chronology – Kīlauea – June 16, 2022

Color photograph of scientists in the field

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During the first half of June, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) staff, along with collaborators from other parts of USGS, temporarily deployed instruments to collect ground-based magnetotelluric (MT) data to image structure and fluids beneath the surface of Kīlauea. This photo shows scientists preparing a site on Kīlauea’s south flank for instrument installation. The project is funded by the Additional Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Act of 2019 (H.R. 2157), which provided the USGS HVO with funds to conduct scientific investigations of the current state of Kīlauea. You can learn more about the project in this “Volcano Watch” article: https://www.usgs.gov/observatories/hvo/news/volcano-watch-playing-wire-upcoming-surveys-reveal-kilaueas-inner-workings. USGS photo by A. Ellis.

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HVO staff and collaborators install temporary instruments to collect magnetotelluric (MT) data on Kīlauea volcano’s south flank. At each location, electrodes, induction-coil magnetometers, and data loggers are deployed for 1–2 days. This photo shows a magnetometer being prepared for burial in a narrow and shallow trench to minimize wind noise. This project has been permitted by Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park and is funded by the Additional Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Act of 2019 (H.R. 2157). USGS photo by A. Ellis.

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At each magnetotelluric (MT) site, three electrodes are installed. The electrodes require electrical contact with the ground and are buried in shallow holes about the width and depth of a spade head. The electrode is encapsulated in a canvas bag filled with bentonite, and water is poured in the electrode hole to improve the contact resistance. Electrodes are spaced about 50 m (164 ft) apart along NS and EW lines and are connected to the data logger at the center of the site. USGS photo by Andi Ellis.

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The magnetotelluric (MT) instruments pose no health risk to people or animals and over 1–2 days will collect data that will inform HVO and collaborating scientists about the subsurface structure and fluids. Comparison to similar datasets collected prior to the 2018 lower East Rift Zone eruption and summit collapse of Kīlauea will highlight any changes. USGS photo by P. Bedrosian.

Photo and Video Chronology – Kīlauea – June 16, 2022

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