Aloha & Welcome to Lava Ocean Adventures - The Big Islands premiere Hawaii Volcano Tours

Hawaii Vacation tours to visit the active volcano Kilauea
Lava Time
Ocean Lava Boat Tours to Hawaii Volcanoes lava ocean entry Hawaii's Big Island Fishing Charters

*Lava Tour* **Updates**

Hawaii Fishing & Lava Combo charter
 
 

Hawaii Volcano Kilauea Ocean Lava Eruption Updates -

Recent Kilauea Status Reports, Updates, and Information Releases

Lavaocean 2010 synopsis-

August 17th Lava from the new Puhi-o-Kalaikini ocean entry continues to flow at two locations the lava viewing by boat is unbelieveable come see for yourself.

July 25th, 2010 Lava is now entering the ocean in high volume over seacliffs with amazing views of red hot lava now available from the our lava boats. January 2nd, 2010 lava stopped entering the ocean. April 29 a finger of lava reaches the sea. Apr 29-May29th the Quarry lava flow, flows high volumes into the sea. A black sand beach was created and at one point it was at least 100 yards wide only to be covered a week later. During this entry Lava flowed over the previous Ki ocean entry bench adding approximatly eight acres of land to the coastline. Until the lava touches the sea, lava is still flowing through tubes, across the pali (hillside) and making a fresh path to the ocean. Come join us on our Volcano Coastal Tour along the remote Puna Volcano Coastline This is your chance to see the newest land on earth. Come experience the breathtaking views of geological masterpieces: sea aches, black sand beaches, lava tubes, landslides, bench breaks, along with a guided tour pertaining to the past 27 years of Kileaua Volcano's erZuption and local area knowledge. These clean ocean waters are home all kinds of sea life including Dolphins, Flying Fish (Malolo), Turtles, Monk Seals every day is a new adventure out here in the remote Puna ocean waters come see for yourself.
Current Lavaocean Update - August, 2010 Puhi-o-Kalaikini ocean entry continues to flow at two locations. The western ocean entry has built a pennsulia with fingers of lava able to be viewed nite or day whereas the other flow has condensed into a firey pit with littorial explosions producing black sand right before your eyes. The The eastern ocean entry (`Ili`ili) remains inactive but still steaming as it cools. Lava Viewing has been amazing lately with calm ocean waters a hawaii voclano tour you'll remember forever awaits you right now. Over the past couple weeks we've seen an increase of volcanic activity. The creation of these lava cliffs here in Hawaii Voncanoes National Park can happen over night but also can be taken back away in similar fashion. The coastline is eroding from the second it is formed. Due to this sites and landmarks change regularly around these parts. Lately the ocean has been alive with enounters with flying fish, Ahi birds, Spinner Dolphins, Bottlenose Dolphins and Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. The LOA crew is ready to take you to experience the magic Hawaii's newest coastline.

Lavaocean Volcano Video Eruption Update -
Kilauea Volcano Eruption updates performed aboard Lava Boat LavaKai


Hawaii Volcanoes National Park - volcano update - http://volcano.wr.usgs.gov/hvostatus.php

HVO Eruption Archieves

July 2007 Eruption—Flow Field Map: August 5, 2010

Map showing the extent of the July 2007 eruption flow field relative to surrounding communities. Light red is the extent of the July 2007 eruption flow field. Reddish-brown is the extent of the currently-active Quarry flow as of July 22, 2010, while bright red shows the flow field expansion of the Quarry flow mapped by HVO geologists between July 22 and August 5. Flows erupted earlier during the 1983-present Pu`u `Ō `ō-Kupaianaha eruption are shown in more muted colors and labeled with the years in which they were active.

27 July 2010 - Lava Ocean Adventures UPDATE

Second finger of lava overtopped the Hakuma horst

Lava begins to sprawl out across the new Puhi-o-Kalaikini ocean entry canvassing the coastline with rivers of red hot lava a lava lovers dream come true. A 200 meter wide lava flow display of lava entering the ocean.

14 August 2010

Plume from the Puhi-o-Kalaikini ocean entry is visible from Highway 130

The plume from the Puhi-o-Kalaikini ocean entry is easily visible from Highway 130, on the hill descending towards Kalapana. Just in front of the ocean entry plume, the houses of Kalapana Gardens subdivision can be seen on the 1990 lava flows.
The plume from the Puhi-o-Kalaikini ocean entry is easily visible from Highway 130, on the hill descending towards Kalapana. Just in front of the ocean entry plume, the houses of Kalapana Gardens subdivision can be seen on the 1990 lava flows.

13 August 2010

Puhi-o-Kalaikini ocean entry continues to host a medium size steam plume

The Puhi-o-Kalaikini ocean entry, which is almost 1 km (0.6 mi) long, continues to host a medium size steam plume near the center of the delta. Hidden from view in this photograph, another small plume to the west rises from the same delta, where a stream of lava enters the ocean.
The Puhi-o-Kalaikini ocean entry, which is almost 1 km (0.6 mi) long, continues to host a medium size steam plume near the center of the delta. Hidden from view in this photograph, another small plume to the west rises from the same delta, where a stream of lava enters the ocean.

6 August 2010

Thermal/visible image of the Kalapana area

This composite image of the Kalapana area combines a thermal image and a normal photograph. The areas of recent, but inactive, lava are shown by red and purple colors, while the yellow and white colors show areas of active breakouts.
This composite image of the Kalapana area combines a thermal image and a normal photograph. The areas of recent, but inactive, lava are shown by red and purple colors, while the yellow and white colors show areas of active breakouts.

Awesome views into Pu`u `Ō `ō crater and `Ili`ili and Puhiokalaikini ocean entries

Steep view looking west into Pu`u `Ō `ō crater. The dominant degassing, obvious in this photo, is from a hole on the eastern wall of the crater.
View looking toward the ocean entries in the distance. The 'Ili'ili entry is marked by the tiny plume to the left. The very broad Puhiokalaikini entry comprises the rest of the plumes along the shoreline. The tube system feeding the ocean entries is delineated by the fume in the foreground.
Left. Steep view looking west into Pu`u `Ō `ō crater. The dominant degassing, obvious in this photo, is from a hole on the eastern wall of the crater. Right. View looking toward the ocean entries in the distance. The 'Ili'ili entry is marked by the tiny plume to the left. The very broad Puhiokalaikini entry comprises the rest of the plumes along the shoreline. The tube system feeding the ocean entries is delineated by the fume in the foreground.
View looking southwest across the Kalapana Gardens subdivision toward the ocean entries in the background. The slightly lighter-colored surface just past the houses and topped by burned trees marks the area recently covered by lava.
 Close-up view of the Puhiokalaikini entry.
Left. View looking southwest across the Kalapana Gardens subdivision toward the ocean entries in the background. The slightly lighter-colored surface just past the houses and topped by burned trees marks the area recently covered by lava. Right. Close-up view of the Puhiokalaikini entry.
Close-up view of the 'Ili'ili entry.
Close-up view of the 'Ili'ili entry.

5 August 2010

Puhiokalaikini ocean entry continued to build its delta

The western ocean entry, named Puhiokalaikini, has continued to build its delta to the west. Over the past day, lava filled in this small bay at a remarkable rate. The promontory in the upper right corner of the photograph hosted a popular fishing spot.
The western ocean entry, named Puhiokalaikini, has continued to build its delta to the west. Over the past day, lava filled in this small bay at a remarkable rate. The promontory in the upper right corner of the photograph hosted a popular fishing spot.
In addition to filling in several small bays, the lava infiltrated small caves in the seacliff as well. Just a week ago this was a blowhole that occasionally shot seawater high into the air. Fresh lava, visible at the bottom of the pit, has since filled in the cave connecting the blowhole to the sea.
The Puhiokalaikini entry also continued to expand eastward, as small pahoehoe toes advanced on the new black sand beach below the seacliff.
Left. In addition to filling in several small bays, the lava infiltrated small caves in the seacliff as well. Just a week ago this was a blowhole that occasionally shot seawater high into the air. Fresh lava, visible at the bottom of the pit, has since filled in the cave connecting the blowhole to the sea. Right. The Puhiokalaikini entry also continued to expand eastward, as small pahoehoe toes advanced on the new black sand beach below the seacliff.

3 August 2010

Awesome views of ocean entry deltas near Kalapana and `Ili`ili

View of the western edge of the western ocean entry delta near Kalapana.
 View of lava dripping into the ocean on the western edge of the `Ili`ili ocean entry delta
Left. View of the western edge of the western ocean entry delta near Kalapana.Right. View of lava dripping into the ocean on the western edge of the `Ili`ili ocean entry delta

2 August 2010

A HVO geologist photographs a small breakout and a pāhoehoe toe oozes onto the road

An HVO geologist photographs a small breakout covering the last stretch of exposed asphalt near the intersection of highways 130 and 137, just west of the current County lava viewing area.
A pāhoehoe toe oozes onto the road, igniting the asphalt and nearby brush.
Left. An HVO geologist photographs a small breakout covering the last stretch of exposed asphalt near the intersection of highways 130 and 137, just west of the current County lava viewing area. Right. A pāhoehoe toe oozes onto the road, igniting the asphalt and nearby brush.

27 July 2010 - USGS

In the past day a second finger of lava overtopped the Hakuma horst and pushed through thick vegetation towards the ocean. The flow front was less than 20 meters from the sea cliff this morning. Along the margins of this finger, lava triggered numerous small fires, sending thick smoke through the forest of hala trees and coconut palms.
 The front of this small finger of lava was almost to the sea cliff this morning, and was burning through low brush along the coastline.
Left. In the past day a second finger of lava overtopped the Hakuma horst and pushed through thick vegetation towards the ocean. The flow front was less than 20 meters from the sea cliff this morning. Along the margins of this finger, lava triggered numerous small fires, sending thick smoke through the forest of hala trees and coconut palms.Right. The front of this small finger of lava was almost to the sea cliff this morning, and was burning through low brush along the coastline.
The flows that reached the ocean on July 25 continued to build a small delta today.
The flows that reached the ocean on July 25 continued to build a small delta today.

14 August 2010

Plume from the Puhi-o-Kalaikini ocean entry is visible from Highway 130

The plume from the Puhi-o-Kalaikini ocean entry is easily visible from Highway 130, on the hill descending towards Kalapana. Just in front of the ocean entry plume, the houses of Kalapana Gardens subdivision can be seen on the 1990 lava flows.
The plume from the Puhi-o-Kalaikini ocean entry is easily visible from Highway 130, on the hill descending towards Kalapana. Just in front of the ocean entry plume, the houses of Kalapana Gardens subdivision can be seen on the 1990 lava flows.

13 August 2010

Puhi-o-Kalaikini ocean entry continues to host a medium size steam plume

The Puhi-o-Kalaikini ocean entry, which is almost 1 km (0.6 mi) long, continues to host a medium size steam plume near the center of the delta. Hidden from view in this photograph, another small plume to the west rises from the same delta, where a stream of lava enters the ocean.
The Puhi-o-Kalaikini ocean entry, which is almost 1 km (0.6 mi) long, continues to host a medium size steam plume near the center of the delta. Hidden from view in this photograph, another small plume to the west rises from the same delta, where a stream of lava enters the ocean.

6 August 2010

Thermal/visible image of the Kalapana area

This composite image of the Kalapana area combines a thermal image and a normal photograph. The areas of recent, but inactive, lava are shown by red and purple colors, while the yellow and white colors show areas of active breakouts.
This composite image of the Kalapana area combines a thermal image and a normal photograph. The areas of recent, but inactive, lava are shown by red and purple colors, while the yellow and white colors show areas of active breakouts.

Awesome views into Pu`u `Ō `ō crater and `Ili`ili and Puhiokalaikini ocean entries

Steep view looking west into Pu`u `Ō `ō crater. The dominant degassing, obvious in this photo, is from a hole on the eastern wall of the crater.
View looking toward the ocean entries in the distance. The 'Ili'ili entry is marked by the tiny plume to the left. The very broad Puhiokalaikini entry comprises the rest of the plumes along the shoreline. The tube system feeding the ocean entries is delineated by the fume in the foreground.
Left. Steep view looking west into Pu`u `Ō `ō crater. The dominant degassing, obvious in this photo, is from a hole on the eastern wall of the crater. Right. View looking toward the ocean entries in the distance. The 'Ili'ili entry is marked by the tiny plume to the left. The very broad Puhiokalaikini entry comprises the rest of the plumes along the shoreline. The tube system feeding the ocean entries is delineated by the fume in the foreground.
View looking southwest across the Kalapana Gardens subdivision toward the ocean entries in the background. The slightly lighter-colored surface just past the houses and topped by burned trees marks the area recently covered by lava.
 Close-up view of the Puhiokalaikini entry.
Left. View looking southwest across the Kalapana Gardens subdivision toward the ocean entries in the background. The slightly lighter-colored surface just past the houses and topped by burned trees marks the area recently covered by lava. Right. Close-up view of the Puhiokalaikini entry.
Close-up view of the 'Ili'ili entry.
Close-up view of the 'Ili'ili entry.

5 August 2010

Puhiokalaikini ocean entry continued to build its delta

The western ocean entry, named Puhiokalaikini, has continued to build its delta to the west. Over the past day, lava filled in this small bay at a remarkable rate. The promontory in the upper right corner of the photograph hosted a popular fishing spot.
The western ocean entry, named Puhiokalaikini, has continued to build its delta to the west. Over the past day, lava filled in this small bay at a remarkable rate. The promontory in the upper right corner of the photograph hosted a popular fishing spot.
In addition to filling in several small bays, the lava infiltrated small caves in the seacliff as well. Just a week ago this was a blowhole that occasionally shot seawater high into the air. Fresh lava, visible at the bottom of the pit, has since filled in the cave connecting the blowhole to the sea.
The Puhiokalaikini entry also continued to expand eastward, as small pahoehoe toes advanced on the new black sand beach below the seacliff.
Left. In addition to filling in several small bays, the lava infiltrated small caves in the seacliff as well. Just a week ago this was a blowhole that occasionally shot seawater high into the air. Fresh lava, visible at the bottom of the pit, has since filled in the cave connecting the blowhole to the sea. Right. The Puhiokalaikini entry also continued to expand eastward, as small pahoehoe toes advanced on the new black sand beach below the seacliff.

3 August 2010

Awesome views of ocean entry deltas near Kalapana and `Ili`ili

View of the western edge of the western ocean entry delta near Kalapana.
 View of lava dripping into the ocean on the western edge of the `Ili`ili ocean entry delta
Left. View of the western edge of the western ocean entry delta near Kalapana.Right. View of lava dripping into the ocean on the western edge of the `Ili`ili ocean entry delta

2 August 2010

A HVO geologist photographs a small breakout and a pāhoehoe toe oozes onto the road

An HVO geologist photographs a small breakout covering the last stretch of exposed asphalt near the intersection of highways 130 and 137, just west of the current County lava viewing area.
A pāhoehoe toe oozes onto the road, igniting the asphalt and nearby brush.
Left. An HVO geologist photographs a small breakout covering the last stretch of exposed asphalt near the intersection of highways 130 and 137, just west of the current County lava viewing area. Right. A pāhoehoe toe oozes onto the road, igniting the asphalt and nearby brush.

Lavaocean Update - July 27th, 2010 Lava's Red Hot

Lava from the TEB vent is flowing through tubes that carry lava down-slope to feed active surface flows in two locations on the coastal plain:

(1) Lava continues to move eastward toward Kalapana Gardens, advancing at most about 100 m (330 ft) in the past 24 hours. Lava is creeping into remaining kipuka at the western edge of the subdivision, and the flow front is 75 m (250 ft) from the nearest structure. Activity observed this afternoon is less vigorous than that observed yesterday, and the eastward advance of lava appears to have slowed.

Painted across the seacliff lava flows in high volume with great views of multiple entrys with palm trees in the background. Lava is still entering the ocean, forming a delta that continues to grow as of tonight it was 300 yards wide with a lava viewing second to none. About 500 m (550 yards) east of this ocean entry, another flow overtopped the Hakuma horst, and, as of noon today, this lava was about 20 m (65 ft) from the ocean. 

(2) Minor scattered lava flows also remain active about 1 km (0.6 mi) west and upslope of the Hwy 137 flow. July 15, 2010

Water has been nice and smooth with great boating conditions. Over the past couple weeks we've seen an increase of volcanic activity. The creation of these lava cliffs here in Hawaii Voncanoes National Park can happen over night but also can be taken back away in similar fashion. The coastline is eroding from the second it is formed. Due to this sites and landmarks change regularly around these parts. Lately the ocean has been alive with enounters with flying fish, Ahi birds, Spinner Dolphins, Bottle Nosed Dolphins and Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. The LOA crew is ready to take you to experience the magic Hawaii's newest coastline.

26 July 2010

Narrow finger reached the ocean and lava exiting the tube poured onto growing delta

The rebirth of the lava ocean begins with lava burning its way through ancient lands filled lush junglescapes including Coconut Palms, Fishing Grounds, and into the Pacific Ocean once again. Welcome home Pele!

Lava Ocean Adventures Photo ->
A narrow finger of lava reached the ocean just after 2 pm yesterday. By this afternoon the lava had built a small delta, barely visible through the thick steam plume. Lava also remained active on the coastal plain, close to residences in Kalapana.
A narrow finger of lava reached the ocean just after 2 pm yesterday. By this afternoon the lava had built a small delta, barely visible through the thick steam plume. Lava also remained active on the coastal plain, close to residences in Kalapana.
Lava exited the tube at the sea cliff and poured out onto the growing delta.
The finger of lava that reached the ocean yesterday took out numerous trees on its path to the water. This coconut palm was one of many burned and fallen.
Left. Lava exited the tube at the sea cliff and poured out onto the growing delta. Right. The finger of lava that reached the ocean yesterday took out numerous trees on its path to the water. This coconut palm was one of many burned and fallen.

25 July 2010 - Lava Ocean Adventures UPDATE

The rebirth of the lava ocean begins with lava burning its way through ancient lands filled lush junglescapes including Coconut Palms, Fishing Grounds, and into the Pacific Ocean once again. Welcome home Pele!

Lava Ocean Adventures Photo ->

 

24 July 2010

More active breakouts along Highway 137 and thick smoke from burning vegetation

More breakouts were active along Highway 137 today, with this lobe burning through a grove of ironwood trees before reaching the asphalt.
More breakouts were active along Highway 137 today, with this lobe burning through a grove of ironwood trees before reaching the asphalt.
The air was thick with smoke from burning vegetation and asphalt. Flows here were crossing Highway 137 and moving slowly towards a residence.
View towards the south, showing the recent lava abutting the Hakuma horst, which is directing flows towards the east. The fault scarp extends about 2 meters above the level of the lava here.
Left. The air was thick with smoke from burning vegetation and asphalt. Flows here were crossing Highway 137 and moving slowly towards a residence. Right. View towards the south, showing the recent lava abutting the Hakuma horst, which is directing flows towards the east. The fault scarp extends about 2 meters above the level of the lava here.

23 July 2010

Lava flow reached the north facing scarp and composite image showing the active flow front

Flows continued to be active along Hwy 137, inching closer towards houses in Kalapana. This photo shows an inflated flow front that has ruptured, spilling out the fluid lava within the flow.
This composite image combines a thermal image with a normal photograph, and shows the active flow front in Kalapana. The flow is abutting the raised ground of the Hakuma horst, which is diverting the flows to the east and bringing them closer to residences.
Left. Lava flows have reached the north facing scarp of the Hakuma horst (the vegetated segment roughly shaped like California), temporarily stopping flows toward the south, sending them along the scarp to the east and west. If the flows continue to inflate, they will overcome the topography of the horst and once again flow toward the ocean. Right. This composite image combines a thermal image with a normal photograph, and shows the active flow front in Kalapana. The flow is abutting the raised ground of the Hakuma horst, which is diverting the flows to the east and bringing them closer to residences.

22 July 2010

Flows continue to be active south of the Kalapana access road

Flows continue to be active south of the Kalapana access road, heading in a generally eastward direction. These breakouts were active just a few hundred meters east of the County lava viewing area.
Scorched ground extended out beyond the flow margins, as the lava triggered small fires that consumed adjacent grass and underbrush.
Left. Flows continue to be active south of the Kalapana access road, heading in a generally eastward direction. These breakouts were active just a few hundred meters east of the County lava viewing area. Right. Scorched ground extended out beyond the flow margins, as the lava triggered small fires that consumed adjacent grass and underbrush.

20 July 2010

Flows continue to be active along Highway 137

Flows continued to be active along Hwy 137, inching closer towards houses in Kalapana. This photo shows an inflated flow front that has ruptured, spilling out the fluid lava within the flow.
The advancing flows triggered many small fires, with underbrush burned up to a hundred meters ahead of the flow.
Left. Flows continued to be active along Hwy 137, inching closer towards houses in Kalapana. This photo shows an inflated flow front that has ruptured, spilling out the fluid lava within the flow. Right. The advancing flows triggered many small fires, with underbrush burned up to a hundred meters ahead of the flow.

17 July 2010

FLows reached Kalapana access road

Flows reached the Kalapana access road in the past day, and covered about 300 meters of asphalt. The burning asphalt created a plume of thick, black smoke.
Flows were also active in kipukas north and south of the access road today, and were pushing through thick vegetation.
Left. Flows reached the Kalapana access road in the past day, and covered about 300 meters of asphalt. The burning asphalt created a plume of thick, black smoke. Right. Flows were also active in kipukas north and south of the access road today, and were pushing through thick vegetation.
This active lobe disregarded the fence and continued south on its way to the ocean.
This active lobe disregarded the fence and continued south on its way to the ocean.

14 July 2010

Thermal images showing the active flows coming down the pali and at Halema`uma`u

This image is a composite of a normal photograph and a thermal image, and shows the currently active flows coming down the pali towards the ocean. The active flow areas are shown as white and yellow, while older, cooler flows are shown by purple hues. The flows this morning were about 900 meters from the County viewing area, at the end of the Kalapana access road.
This thermal image shows the view of the Halema`uma`u vent from today's overflight. The kidney-shaped lava pond, about 90 meters long, is deep within the vent cavity. The mostly-crusted lava migrates from the north (right in this photo), where it upwells from depth, to the south, where is sinks back into the conduit.
Left. This image is a composite of a normal photograph and a thermal image, and shows the currently active flows coming down the pali towards the ocean. The active flow areas are shown as white and yellow, while older, cooler flows are shown by purple hues. The flows this morning were about 900 meters from the County viewing area, at the end of the Kalapana access road. Right. This thermal image shows the view of the Halema`uma`u vent from today's overflight. The kidney-shaped lava pond, about 90 meters long, is deep within the vent cavity. The mostly-crusted lava migrates from the north (right in this photo), where it upwells from depth, to the south, where is sinks back into the conduit.
Lava flows are once again nearing the County viewing area at the end of Highway 130. The flow front is about one kilometer (0.6 mi) away, burning small patches of vegetation in its path.
Lava flows are once again nearing the County viewing area at the end of Highway 130. The flow front is about one kilometer (0.6 mi) away, burning small patches of vegetation in its path.
Left. Lava flows are once again nearing the County viewing area at the end of Highway 130. The flow front is about one kilometer (0.6 mi) away, burning small patches of vegetation in its path. Right. Lava flows are once again nearing the County viewing area at the end of Highway 130. The flow front is about one kilometer (0.6 mi) away, burning small patches of vegetation in its path.

8 July 2010

Aerial photo looking directly into a skylight

An aerial photo looking directly into a skylight that formed in the last 24 hours. This skylight is located at the top of one of the rootless shields on the upper flow field.
 Geologist changing the data card from the timelapse camera on the north rim of Pu`u `Ō `ō cone.
Left. An aerial photo looking directly into a skylight that formed in the last 24 hours. This skylight is located at the top of one of the rootless shields on the upper flow field.Right. Geologist changing the data card from the timelapse camera on the north rim of Pu`u `Ō `ō cone.

1 July 2010

Views of the TEB tube system and the rootless shield

View looking southeast along the fuming trace of the TEB tube system. The growing rootless shield field is in the background just above and to the left of center frame. The low, rounded shape of the shields-especially the shield in shadow to the left-are evident in this photo.
 View looking the opposite direction (toward the northwest) with the rootless shields field crossing the image just above center. The low rounded shield shape is not apparent at this slightly steeper angle. The terminus of the active flows is just above the lower right side of the photo.
Left. View looking southeast along the fuming trace of the TEB tube system. The growing rootless shield field is in the background just above and to the left of center frame. The low, rounded shape of the shields-especially the shield in shadow to the left-are evident in this photo.Right. View looking the opposite direction (toward the northwest) with the rootless shields field crossing the image just above center. The low rounded shield shape is not apparent at this slightly steeper angle. The terminus of the active flows is just above the lower right side of the photo.
Rootless shields, when active, are often topped by a lava pond, as seen here.
Rootless shields grow both in breadth and height through the accumulation of repeated overflows from the summits of the shields. In this photo, a stream of lava is flowing southward down the flank of this emergent shield.
Left. Rootless shields, when active, are often topped by a lava pond, as seen here. Right. Rootless shields grow both in breadth and height through the accumulation of repeated overflows from the summits of the shields. In this photo, a stream of lava is flowing southward down the flank of this emergent shield.

21 June 2010

Activity at Pu`u `Ō `ō crater and the rootless shield

The recent activity within Pu`u `Ō `ō crater quieted over the past several days. This photo shows the new, dark-colored lava that covered the crater floor. A new gas vent on the east wall of the crater (top left) also appeared over the couple of weeks.
 The new gas vent on the east wall of Pu`u `Ō `ō crater opening up next to an older vent (the dark opening to the right of the new gas vent) that sealed shut in the past few months. The new vent has been incandescent at night for the past few days.
Left. The recent activity within Pu`u `Ō `ō crater quieted over the past several days. This photo shows the new, dark-colored lava that covered the crater floor. A new gas vent on the east wall of the crater (top left) also appeared over the couple of weeks.Right. The new gas vent on the east wall of Pu`u `Ō `ō crater opening up next to an older vent (the dark opening to the right of the new gas vent) that sealed shut in the past few months. The new vent has been incandescent at night for the past few days.
Activity on the active flow field has been dominated by rootless lava shield construction for the past several weeks. The main shield, seen here, is topped by a lava pond that feeds overflows down the sides of the shield. Successive overflows slowly build up the height of the shields. At the time of this photo, a second shield was also active out of sight to the right.
 A close-up view of the top of the main rootless lava shield. The lava pond at the top of the shield is roughly 100 meters (yards) across.
Left. Activity on the active flow field has been dominated by rootless lava shield construction for the past several weeks. The main shield, seen here, is topped by a lava pond that feeds overflows down the sides of the shield. Successive overflows slowly build up the height of the shields. At the time of this photo, a second shield was also active out of sight to the right.Right. A close-up view of the top of the main rootless lava shield. The lava pond at the top of the shield is roughly 100 meters (yards) across.
This photo, taken at the northern base of the main rootless lava shield (the top of the previous photo), shows lava flowing down the flank of the shield.
 This aerial view of the main rootless lava shield shows the low, domed shape of this type of flow field feature. Sometimes, the flank of a rootless shield will fail, suddenly releasing the lava stored within and feeding fast moving 'a'ā flows.
Left. This photo, taken at the northern base of the main rootless lava shield (the top of the previous photo), shows lava flowing down the flank of the shield.Right. This aerial view of the main rootless lava shield shows the low, domed shape of this type of flow field feature. Sometimes, the flank of a rootless shield will fail, suddenly releasing the lava stored within and feeding fast moving 'a'ā flows.

11 June 2010

Quicktime movie showing action within Pu`u `Ō `ō crater

This Quicktime movie shows video taken during today's field visit and overflight. The first portion of the video is taken at the rim of Pu`u `Ō `ō crater, and shows the north vent feeding the lava pond. The lava surface undulates due to rising gas bubbles, and a small overturn is triggered. The second portion of the video shows an open stream of lava at the summit of one of the rootless shields on the Quarry flow.
This Quicktime movie shows video taken during today's field visit and overflight. The first portion of the video is taken at the rim of Pu`u `Ō `ō crater, and shows the north vent feeding the lava pond. The lava surface undulates due to rising gas bubbles, and a small overturn is triggered. The second portion of the video shows an open stream of lava at the summit of one of the rootless shields on the Quarry flow.

Aerial view of Pu`u `Ō `ō crater and a striking view of a breakout

Aerial view from above the north rim of Pu`u `Ō `ō crater. Most of the activity was in the center of the pond (lighter grey area), where one of the vents was actively spattering and small pieces of crust were overturning. The two cameras setup on the north rim of the crater are the Pu`u `Ō `ō Webcam (which can be viewed on our website), and the new time-lapse camera that was deployed today.
Another view of the lava pond in Pu`u `Ō `ō crater, taken from the southwest rim of the cone. The pond is approximately 75 meters below the visible section of the rim in the upper edge of the photograph.
Left. Aerial view from above the north rim of Pu`u `Ō `ō crater. Most of the activity was in the center of the pond (lighter grey area), where one of the vents was actively spattering and small pieces of crust were overturning. The two cameras setup on the north rim of the crater are the Pu`u `Ō `ō Webcam (which can be viewed on our website), and the new time-lapse camera that was deployed today. Right. Another view of the lava pond in Pu`u `Ō `ō crater, taken from the southwest rim of the cone. The pond is approximately 75 meters below the visible section of the rim in the upper edge of the photograph.
A striking view of a breakout atop one of the rootless shields on the Quarry flow. Lava is flowing from the breakout point near the bottom of the photo toward the top of the photo, where it reenters the lava tube and continues downslope.
A striking view of a breakout atop one of the rootless shields on the Quarry flow. Lava is flowing from the breakout point near the bottom of the photo toward the top of the photo, where it reenters the lava tube and continues downslope.

3 June 2010

Gas geochemists deploy a FTIR on Pu`u `Ō `ō crater

HVO gas geochemists deployed a FTIR spectrometer on the east rim of Pu`u `Ō `ō crater. The FTIR measures the composition of the East Wall vent gases by 'looking' through the plume at an infrared lamp (obscured by fume in this photo).
This photo was taken from the lamp on the other side of the plume. The FTIR is the small dark silhouette on the rim across the crater gap.
Left. HVO gas geochemists deployed a FTIR spectrometer on the east rim of Pu`u `Ō `ō crater. The FTIR measures the composition of the East Wall vent gases by "looking" through the plume at an infrared lamp (obscured by fume in this photo).Right. This photo was taken from the lamp on the other side of the plume. The FTIR is the small dark silhouette on the rim across the crater gap.
An aerial view of the new lava pond inside Pu`u `Ō `ō crater. The photo was taken from the southeast.
One of two small spatter cones that erupted through the crusted lava of a newly formed pond in Pu`u `Ō `ō. This cone is located at the base of the south wall of the crater.
Left. An aerial view of the new lava pond inside Pu`u `Ō `ō crater. The photo was taken from the southeast. Right. One of two small spatter cones that erupted through the crusted lava of a newly formed pond in Pu`u `Ō `ō. This cone is located at the base of the south wall of the crater.

Quicktime movie showing active lava pond within Pu`u `Ō `ō crater

This Quicktime movie shows the active lava pond within Pu`u `Ō `ō crater, imaged with a thermal camera. The video is shown at x60 speed, and covers about 25 minutes. Lava is being supplied to the crater from two vents, one visible in the upper right corner of the image and one out of view in the lower left. Crustal foundering events, in which a section of the thin surface crust ruptures and sinks, exposing the hot interior of the pond, are common. This view is towards the north.
This Quicktime movie shows the active lava pond within Pu`u `Ō `ō crater, imaged with a thermal camera. The video is shown at x60 speed, and covers about 25 minutes. Lava is being supplied to the crater from two vents, one visible in the upper right corner of the image and one out of view in the lower left. Crustal foundering events, in which a section of the thin surface crust ruptures and sinks, exposing the hot interior of the pond, are common. This view is towards the north.

Thermal images showing Pu`u `Ō `ō pond, a rootless lava shield, and a geologist sampling the lava from the interior of the rootless shield

This thermal image shows the lava pond within Pu`u `Ō `ō crater. The view is towards the southeast. The pond is fed from two upwelling sources, one on the south margin of the pond and one on the north margin.
'Rootless' lava shields are those built over a lava tube, as opposed to those which develop over the vent. This rootless shield was built over the past week, and hosted a lava pond at its summit. Overflows from the pond cascaded down the steep flanks. A short lava flow, in the lower right portion of the image, originates from the flank and represents lava seeping out from the shield interior.
Left. This thermal image shows the lava pond within Pu`u `Ō `ō crater. The view is towards the southeast. The pond is fed from two upwelling sources, one on the south margin of the pond and one on the north margin. Right."Rootless" lava shields are those built over a lava tube, as opposed to those which develop over the vent. This rootless shield was built over the past week, and hosted a lava pond at its summit. Overflows from the pond cascaded down the steep flanks. A short lava flow, in the lower right portion of the image, originates from the flank and represents lava seeping out from the shield interior.
This image shows an HVO geologist sampling the lava that was seeping out of the interior of the rootless shield. The lava was placed in a bucket of water to quench the sample. The top frame is a normal photograph, while the bottom frame is a thermal image taken within a fraction of a second of the photograph. As the thermal image shows, the incandescent interior of the flow, which is exposed as lava clinker spalls off, exceeds 1000 degrees Celsius (1800 degrees Fahrenheit). The geologist is shielding his face from the radiant heat.
This image shows an HVO geologist sampling the lava that was seeping out of the interior of the rootless shield. The lava was placed in a bucket of water to quench the sample. The top frame is a normal photograph, while the bottom frame is a thermal image taken within a fraction of a second of the photograph. As the thermal image shows, the incandescent interior of the flow, which is exposed as lava clinker spalls off, exceeds 1000 degrees Celsius (1800 degrees Fahrenheit). The geologist is shielding his face from the radiant heat.

1 June 2010

Quicktime movie looking into the Halema`uma`u vent cavity

This Quicktime clip shows video from a thermal camera looking into the vent cavity at Halema`uma`u around 3pm today. The video is shown at x4 speed. At the beginning of the clip, the lava level is at a high stand, with slowly migrating crustal plates and little spattering. Eventually, small scale spattering begins in the northeast corner of the pond, accompanied by vigorous degassing. As the violent spattering disrupts the surface crust, the lava level falls as the gas volume is released. In this example, the lava level dropped about 30 meters (100 feet).
This Quicktime clip shows video from a thermal camera looking into the vent cavity at Halema`uma`u around 3pm today. The video is shown at x4 speed. At the beginning of the clip, the lava level is at a high stand, with slowly migrating crustal plates and little spattering. Eventually, small scale spattering begins in the northeast corner of the pond, accompanied by vigorous degassing. As the violent spattering disrupts the surface crust, the lava level falls as the gas volume is released. In this example, the lava level dropped about 30 meters (100 feet).
This photo shows the view with the naked eye during the high lava stand shown in the thermal video from today. When the lava is at a high stand like this, the plume becomes very thin and a rare view of the lava pond is possible. Typically, the fume is too thick to view the lava surface with the naked eye, and we rely on thermal cameras to image the lava.
This photo shows the view with the naked eye during the high lava stand shown in the thermal video from today. When the lava is at a high stand like this, the plume becomes very thin and a rare view of the lava pond is possible. Typically, the fume is too thick to view the lava surface with the naked eye, and we rely on thermal cameras to image the lava.

27 May 2010

Lava Ocean Tour Update-

May 24th, 2010

The past month was another exciting display of the lava's ocean entry. Most days this month we've had mulptiple rivers of lava entering the sea. A large black sand beach formed and was taken back by fresh lava shortly after. A once in a lifetime chance to see red hot lava is happening now, dont wait for it to cool off.

 

Images showing the TEB rootless shield, spattering in Pu`u `Ō `ō, and an aerial view of the coastline

A small rootless shield is forming on the upper flow field over the breakout point of the Quarry flow, the flow that has been feeding the ocean entry for the past several weeks. The shield is approximately 10-15 m (yards) high. This photo was taken looking SSW, with the upslope direction to the right.
A small vent on the rubble covered floor of Pu`u `Ō `ō crater was actively spattering today. Light winds allowed this relatively clear view into the crater, when otherwise it would be consumed by fume.
Left. A small rootless shield is forming on the upper flow field over the breakout point of the Quarry flow, the flow that has been feeding the ocean entry for the past several weeks. The shield is approximately 10-15 m (yards) high. This photo was taken looking SSW, with the upslope direction to the right. Right. A small vent on the rubble covered floor of Pu`u `Ō `ō crater was actively spattering today. Light winds allowed this relatively clear view into the crater, when otherwise it would be consumed by fume.
As evident by the small plume at the ocean entry, the amount of lava traveling through the tubes from the vent to the ocean has diminished. The most active area of the flow field is above the pali where the new rootless shield is forming. USGS photo by T. Orr.
As evident by the small plume at the ocean entry, the amount of lava traveling through the tubes from the vent to the ocean has diminished. The most active area of the flow field is above the pali where the new rootless shield is forming.

 

14 July 2010

Thermal images showing the active flows coming down the pali and at Halema`uma`u

This image is a composite of a normal photograph and a thermal image, and shows the currently active flows coming down the pali towards the ocean. The active flow areas are shown as white and yellow, while older, cooler flows are shown by purple hues. The flows this morning were about 900 meters from the County viewing area, at the end of the Kalapana access road.
This thermal image shows the view of the Halema`uma`u vent from today's overflight. The kidney-shaped lava pond, about 90 meters long, is deep within the vent cavity. The mostly-crusted lava migrates from the north (right in this photo), where it upwells from depth, to the south, where is sinks back into the conduit.
Left. This image is a composite of a normal photograph and a thermal image, and shows the currently active flows coming down the pali towards the ocean. The active flow areas are shown as white and yellow, while older, cooler flows are shown by purple hues. The flows this morning were about 900 meters from the County viewing area, at the end of the Kalapana access road. Right. This thermal image shows the view of the Halema`uma`u vent from today's overflight. The kidney-shaped lava pond, about 90 meters long, is deep within the vent cavity. The mostly-crusted lava migrates from the north (right in this photo), where it upwells from depth, to the south, where is sinks back into the conduit.
Lava flows are once again nearing the County viewing area at the end of Highway 130. The flow front is about one kilometer (0.6 mi) away, burning small patches of vegetation in its path.
Lava flows are once again nearing the County viewing area at the end of Highway 130. The flow front is about one kilometer (0.6 mi) away, burning small patches of vegetation in its path.
Left. Lava flows are once again nearing the County viewing area at the end of Highway 130. The flow front is about one kilometer (0.6 mi) away, burning small patches of vegetation in its path. Right. Lava flows are once again nearing the County viewing area at the end of Highway 130. The flow front is about one kilometer (0.6 mi) away, burning small patches of vegetation in its path.

8 July 2010

Aerial photo looking directly into a skylight

An aerial photo looking directly into a skylight that formed in the last 24 hours. This skylight is located at the top of one of the rootless shields on the upper flow field.
 Geologist changing the data card from the timelapse camera on the north rim of Pu`u `Ō `ō cone.
Left. An aerial photo looking directly into a skylight that formed in the last 24 hours. This skylight is located at the top of one of the rootless shields on the upper flow field.Right. Geologist changing the data card from the timelapse camera on the north rim of Pu`u `Ō `ō cone.

1 July 2010

Views of the TEB tube system and the rootless shield

View looking southeast along the fuming trace of the TEB tube system. The growing rootless shield field is in the background just above and to the left of center frame. The low, rounded shape of the shields-especially the shield in shadow to the left-are evident in this photo.
 View looking the opposite direction (toward the northwest) with the rootless shields field crossing the image just above center. The low rounded shield shape is not apparent at this slightly steeper angle. The terminus of the active flows is just above the lower right side of the photo.
Left. View looking southeast along the fuming trace of the TEB tube system. The growing rootless shield field is in the background just above and to the left of center frame. The low, rounded shape of the shields-especially the shield in shadow to the left-are evident in this photo.Right. View looking the opposite direction (toward the northwest) with the rootless shields field crossing the image just above center. The low rounded shield shape is not apparent at this slightly steeper angle. The terminus of the active flows is just above the lower right side of the photo.
Rootless shields, when active, are often topped by a lava pond, as seen here.
Rootless shields grow both in breadth and height through the accumulation of repeated overflows from the summits of the shields. In this photo, a stream of lava is flowing southward down the flank of this emergent shield.
Left. Rootless shields, when active, are often topped by a lava pond, as seen here. Right. Rootless shields grow both in breadth and height through the accumulation of repeated overflows from the summits of the shields. In this photo, a stream of lava is flowing southward down the flank of this emergent shield.

HAWAII VOLCANO LAVA TOUR ARCHIEVES

© LAVAOCEAN.COM 2010 - SITEMAP -