Scientists Unveil First 3D Images of Mexico’s Popocatépetl Volcano

A team of scientists has achieved a significant milestone by creating the first three-dimensional images of Mexico’s Popocatépetl volcano, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, which poses a risk to millions of people living nearby. The research, conducted by experts from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), aims to provide a better understanding of the volcano’s internal dynamics and improve emergency response strategies for potential eruptions.

The team, led by Marco Calò, a professor at UNAM’s Geophysics Institute, has been studying Popocatépetl for five years. They have faced numerous challenges, including harsh weather conditions and the threat of volcanic eruptions, while working to gather crucial data from the volcano’s interior. Their efforts have culminated in a groundbreaking 3D representation that reveals magma accumulation zones, essential for predicting future volcanic activity.

Exploring the Heart of Popocatépetl

Located at an elevation of 5,452 meters (17,883 feet), Popocatépetl has been continuously active since 1994, releasing smoke, gas, and ash on a regular basis. Approximately 25 million people live within a 100-kilometer radius of the volcano, making its monitoring critical. Previous attempts to map the volcano’s interior, conducted over fifteen years ago, produced unclear results and lacked the resolution necessary to understand its structure effectively.

To enhance their research, Calò’s team increased the number of seismographs from 12 to 22, enabling comprehensive coverage of the volcano’s perimeter. The instruments measure ground vibrations at 100 times per second, providing data that is analyzed using artificial intelligence. Researcher Karina Bernal developed algorithms to identify various seismic signals, allowing the team to infer the composition, state, and temperature of materials deep within the volcano.

The resulting three-dimensional image penetrates 18 kilometers beneath the crater, illustrating a complex system of magma pools and rock layers. This detailed mapping represents a significant advancement in understanding the volcano’s behavior and could lead to improved safety measures for communities in the vicinity.

A Majestic Yet Dangerous Entity

Popocatépetl, affectionately referred to as “El Popo” by locals, has a rich history that includes the burial of the village of Tetimpa by ash in the first century. Despite its frequent eruptions, Calò notes that the amount of greenhouse gases emitted by the volcano is minimal compared to emissions from nearby Mexico City.

The team’s expedition involved rigorous physical challenges, with scientists setting up camp at an elevation of approximately 3,810 meters (12,500 feet). They navigated dangerous terrain, including lahar flows, to ensure the safe collection of data. As they ascended, they enjoyed breathtaking views of other volcanic peaks while listening to the sounds of the active volcano at night, which include occasional explosions and tremors.

Calò emphasized the importance of firsthand experience in understanding the volcano’s behavior. He described Popocatépetl as a “natural laboratory” that allows for direct investigation of volcanic activity, which is crucial in providing residents with trustworthy information about potential dangers.

Despite the challenges, including equipment failures and the threat of volcanic activity, the team’s work has generated valuable insights into the volcano’s inner workings. This research will not only enhance scientific understanding but also guide authorities in making informed decisions during volcanic emergencies.

As the team prepares to publish their findings, they reflect on the dedication and passion that drives their research. For many, including master’s student Karina Rodríguez, witnessing the volcano’s dynamic processes in three dimensions has made their efforts worthwhile and fuels the ambition for future projects.