Geophysical Field Work on Earth’s Largest Active Volcano
By Nik Panupong Kongpet & Pablo Urra Tapia
Working on Mauna Loa can feel a bit like working on Mars. The young lava flows, jagged terrain, and complete remoteness make every step an adventure and a reminder that some parts of this massive volcano have likely never been walked on before. “Watch your step” becomes more than a warning; it becomes a way of life on Mauna Loa.
Understanding Magma Migration Beneath Mauna Loa
Mauna Loa is one of the largest and most active volcanoes on Earth. Its most recent eruption in 2022 sent lava down the North Rift Zone, cutting the road and isolating the Mauna Loa Observatory. Understanding how magma migrates beneath this enormous volcano is essential for improving eruption forecasts and hazard preparedness.
Motivated by these questions, Dr. Jamie Farrell (University of Utah) and Dr. Yang Shen (University of Rhode Island) are leading a seismic experiment aimed at imaging the subsurface structure of Mauna Loa. By deploying and recovering seismometers across the volcano, the team hopes to better understand where magma is stored and how it moves beneath Hawai‘i.
The Field Campaign
The deployment phase in late August 2025 gave Pablo his first experience flying in a helicopter and working at high elevations. He assisted with placing seismometers on rugged lava flow surfaces and learned how to navigate safely across different lava types.
One month later, in October 2025, Nik joined Pablo and the rest of the University of Utah and University of Rhode Island team for the recovery campaign (photo to the left)
After driving up the mountain, we waited for the helicopter to arrive. Our pilot, David Okita from Volcano Helicopters, seemed to know every corner and contour of the volcano. We flew in pairs to remote drop-off points and split into two teams to recover the instruments.
A Landscape Like No Other
The lava flows at the summit of Mauna Loa are extremely young. Many of the pāhoehoe flows appear solid from the surface but are hollow inside. Even what looks like a strong step can suddenly collapse, potentially causing cuts from sharp lava fragments. Every movement must be deliberate and cautious.
The views, however, make every challenge worth it. From the summit, we could see Kīlauea emitting gas and ash, an unforgettable sight. After recovering the instruments, we waited with the equipment for the helicopter to pick us up.
What Comes Next
Dr. Farrell and Dr. Shen will analyze the seismic data collected during both campaigns. These results will help refine our understanding of Mauna Loa’s magma system and improve our broader understanding of volcanic processes on Hawai‘i Island.
Reflections from the Field
Pablo: “Every second was breathtaking, not only because of the altitude, but also because of the amazing landscape you can see from up there. The views of Mauna Kea in all its splendor were truly spectacular. These are some of the memories I will carry with me from such an incredible opportunity.”
Nik: “The helicopter ride was so much fun and an amazing experience! It felt like being a treasure hunter on the volcano. Walking up there is like walking on another planet. The air is fresh, the temperature is perfect, and the rock is beautiful, but never trust your next step. Fresh pāhoehoe lava is fragile and can break at any time.”
Left: Nik’s holding a seismometer, and Right, Pablo and Nik with Mauna Kea as a background
