Project Title: A European volcanological supersite observatory in Iceland: a monitoring system and network for the future

Start Date: 01/10/2012

End Date: 01/04/2016

Project summary:

FutureVolc is a collaborative project encompassing 26 partners in 10 countries. The supersite concept implies integration of space and ground based observations for improved monitoring and evaluation of volcanic hazards, and open data policy. It seeks to integrate research on volcanic eruptions, monitoring systems, preparedness and response. A part of the project has an Arctic dimension with the development of earthquake monitoring instruments to place on glaciers.

Objectives:

The main objectives of FUTUREVOLC are to establish an integrated volcanological monitoring procedure through European collaboration, develop new methods to evaluate volcanic crises, increase scientific understanding of magmatic processes and improve delivery of relevant information to civil protection and authorities. 

Futurevolc promoted interaction and knowledge exchange between different scientific disciplines and stakeholders, including civil protection and industry.

Outcomes:

The project established Iceland as a permanent volcanic geohazard supersite. New algorithms were developed to analyze seismic data for improved 3D velocity structures and earthquake locations. New monitoring equipment was installed around target volcanoes for magma tracking and plume detection. Systems for quickly estimating eruption rates and automatically analyzing ash fallout were developed and tested. Improved models and protocols were put in place to inform civil protection and air traffic control, leading to greater certainty and reduced disruption during volcanic events. 

Funder(s): FP7 Environment Programme of the European Commission

Partners: University of Iceland, Icelandic Meteorological Office

For more information: https://en.vedur.is/about-imo/arctic/futurevolc/