Underneath the azure waves of the Aegean Sea, researchers are delving into the mysteries of Kolumbo, an underwater volcano close to Santorini. Contemporary investigations led by way of the College of Athens and the Hellenic Heart for Marine Analysis (HCMR) have exposed groundbreaking insights into this unstable large. Via two pioneering analysis methods, Santory and Thira, scientists deployed subtle apparatus into Kolumbo’s 500-meter-deep crater to watch its job and create detailed time sequence information, a primary for this volcano.
The research showed Kolumbo’s prime job ranges. Cutting-edge equipment, together with sensors measuring temperature, force, pH, CO₂, hydrogen sulfide, and turbidity, recorded important findings. Cameras captured shiny visuals of hydrothermal chimneys venting fluids at a sizzling 230C, wealthy with carbon dioxide. Lively hydrothermal programs like this call for consistent tracking, as adjustments in emissions may sign eruptive conduct, consistent with Professor Evi Nomikou, head of the Santory mission.
The paintings additionally incorporated seismographs and inclinometer measurements that allowed scientists to trace underwater currents and tectonic shifts. A parallel venture and in cooperation with Santory, Multi-Marex, subsidized by way of German investment, is about to deploy 26 underwater seismographs within the center of the volcano. On the similar time, a 3-d seismic imaging will probably be performed at the Amorgos fault, which brought about a catastrophic 1956 earthquake.
The findings don’t seem to be confined to clinical circles. The Thira initiative introduced volcanic consciousness into Santorini’s faculties, fostering a deeper figuring out of volcanic hazards in a neighborhood residing close to Kolumbo. Whilst municipal investment has lapsed, researchers suggest persisted toughen to make sure the knowledge glide aids long-term volcanic tracking.
Kolumbo exemplifies how state-of-the-art era, global collaboration, and native engagement can converge to remove darkness from the complexities of the Earth’s unstable undersea landscapes, safeguarding each wisdom and lives.
