The Copernicus Sentinel-2 satellite image depicts Nishinoshima, a small uninhabited volcanic island in the northwest Pacific Ocean, around 1,000 km south of Tokyo. This island, part of the Ogasawara Islands, has undergone significant growth since 1974 due to alternating periods of explosive volcanic activity and calm. Initially, only part of the submerged caldera’s ridge was visible, with the island measuring approximately 700 m long and 200 m wide. As of January 2021, it had expanded to around 2.3 km in the north-south direction and 2 km in the east-west direction. The surrounding waters exhibit yellowish discoloration from volcanic minerals and sediments stirred by eruptions. A plume of gas and steam rises from the volcano, raising environmental concerns, particularly for aviation safety, due to potential ash contamination in the atmosphere. Satellite data plays a crucial role in monitoring volcanic activity, offering early warnings to the aviation industry, and assessing the broader environmental impacts through atmospheric sensors. This technology also aids in understanding volcanic behaviors, capturing data on lava flows, ground fissures, and other related phenomena, thus enhancing disaster preparedness and response strategies.
