M. Ramsey, Department of Geology and Planetary Science, 200 SRCC Building, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260

J. Dehn, Geophysical Institute/Alaska Volcano Observatory, University of Alaska, Fairbanks, AK 99775

The ASTER instrument has several global data acquisition goals including perhaps the most ambitious: volcanic eruption monitoring. ASTER is tasked with the observation of over 1100 of the world's active volcanoes during different local times and seasons. This nominal schedule can be augmented with more numerous acquisitions during times of increased activity at a particular volcano. Because it is the first satellite instrument to acquire high spatial resolution data from the visible to thermal infrared wavelength region and has the ability to generate digital elevation models, it is particularly useful for numerous aspects of volcanic remote sensing. For example, the multispectral thermal infrared capability of ASTER is critical for monitoring low temperature thermal anomalies and mapping both chemical and textural variations on lava dome surfaces . However, even during eruptions when ASTER is in an increased acquisition mode, the repeat time is not sufficient for its use strictly as a monitoring tool. High temporal frequency data from GMS and AVHRR provide this service and have been used in conjunction with ASTER to provide a complete framework of two eruptions on the Kamchatkan Peninsula, Russia.

Short wave and thermal infrared ASTER data were used to monitor eruptions and map the volcanic products at Bezymianny and Sheveluch Volcanoes over the past year. From June 1, 2000 to July 1, 2001 activity at these volcanoes increased and was monitored by the Alaskan Volcano Observatory using the AVHRR thermal anomaly alert procedure. Bezymianny has been one of the most historically active volcanoes on the Kamchatkan Peninsula, producing dome-forming eruptions and less-common large ash plumes. Over 60 ASTER scenes of Bezymianny have been collected, and show obvious thermal anomalies covering hundreds of pixels. The data also have been used to map textural variations on the active lava dome and subsequent small pyroclastic flows. Sheveluch volcano is also noted for dome-forming eruptions, large ash plumes, and pyroclastic flows. A new eruption in May and June of 2001 resulted in dome emplacement and an ash column greater than 10km in height. The scale of this eruption produced aviation advisories for the north Pacific and prompted an expedited ASTER data request. Data clearly show new pyroclastic deposits, a west-trending plume, and large thermal anomalies at the summit. The high spatial and spectral resolution of ASTER coupled with the excellent radiometric accuracy makes it an ideal tool for volcanic observations. Where coupled with ongoing operational monitoring programs, the data are extremely useful in discrimination of small surface targets in addition to providing enhanced volcanic mapping capabilities.

------------------
Submitted: American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting
Date: December 10 - 14, 2001