Elastic Stress Transfer at Mauna Loa Volcano, Hawaii: Constraints from InSAR and Gravity Measurements

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This project funds the acquisition and analysis of new InSAR and gravity data for Mauna Loa volcano, Hawaii. The PIs will use the Canadian Radarsat satellite and multi-beam SAR imagery to optimally characterize the 3-D displacement field. The SAR data will be complemented by annual gravity surveys in the summit area. Using the new data and inversion methods the researchers will develop a time-dependent model for the magmatic plumbing system of the volcano. The combination of InSAR and gravity can resolve the geometry of the magma reservoir and whether the ongoing rift widening is caused by active intrusion of new magma or gravity-driven spreading. Data analysis is complemented by mechanical modeling of the volcano. The PIs will then use the InSAR-derived models of the magmatic system to evaluate changes of the stress field and whether changes in deformation sources are consistent with static stress change models. This will lead to a better understanding of earthquake processes, eruptions and flank instabilities on the volcano. The research will add to our knowledge of earthquake and volcanic hazards in Hawaii, as well as benefit the scientific community with the sharing of InSAR imagery through WinSAR.