Volcano Microgravity Measurements

Microgravity - John Seach

Microgravity measurements map small changes in the force of gravity at various locations around a volcano. Gravity measurements must be made with ground deformation measurements to give useful information.

Examples of microgravity uses

Basaltic volcanoes erupt free flowing lava so will produce an increase in gravity as the magma chamber fills before an eruption.
Andesitic volcanoes erupt explosively with an increase in gas before an eruption. This will be preceded by a decrease in gravity.

During an eruruption microgravity measurements may indicate changes in magma vesiculation.
This may give information on the explosive potential of the eruption (combined with other measurements).