The Mauna Loa Eruption Is a Gift for Science
Volcanologists have the first opportunity in nearly four decades to examine and measure an event of this magnitude at the largest volcano in the world.
The world’s largest volcano is erupting for the first time since 1984. Hawaii’s Mauna Loa, a giant mound of a volcano that looks so much like Mars that researchers actually hold Mars simulations there, has stirred. Authorities say the eruption does not threaten any local communities; no evacuation orders have been issued.
For scientists, it’s an exciting development. I talked with Jess Phoenix, a volcanologist with a personal connection to Mauna Loa: It was the first volcano she ever worked on as a volunteer researcher (“basically like an unpaid intern”) at the beginning of her career.
We discussed the significance of the eruption—and what to expect in the days to come.
Our conversation has been edited and condensed
