Combination of Satellite-Based Geodetic Techniques, GNSS and InSAR, to Analyse Recent Episodes of Fogo Volcano Deformation ( S. Miguel, Azores )

Objectivo

This project combines the two most important techniques of spatial geodesy for volcano deformation monitoring, the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and the Interferometry Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR). The GNSS is a ground based technique that is used worldwide in most volcano observatories and the InSAR is a remote sensing technique that has more demanding application conditions. The combination of these two techniques allows a more complete tracking in time and space of the volcano deformation evolution during volcano unrest episodes. Thus, the study to be done will be important for better mapping the deformation episodes occurring at Fogo (Água de Pau) volcano (Azores) since 2002 and understanding the responsible source mechanisms, by estimating the location, size and volume change of the deformation sources. This information is critical to establish a better characterization of Fogo volcano activity behavior in recent years and to help guiding the monitoring strategies and the volcanic hazard evaluation for the active volcanoes in the Azores.