Posted on 06/22/2009 1:30:24 PM PDT by Steelfish
Amazing volcano photo shows shock wave
Image from space shows several phenomena that occur early in eruption [Pic in URL]
NASA Astronauts aboard the international space station captured this striking view of Sarychev Peak in the Kuril Island chain, northeast of Japan, on June 12.
Volcanologists are excited about the picture because it captures several phenomena that occur during the earliest stages of an explosive eruption.
An amazing new picture from space reveals a volcanic eruption in its earliest stage, with a huge plume of ash and steam billowing skyward and creating a shock wave in the atmosphere.
Sarychev Peak on Matua Island is one of the most active volcanoes in the Kuril Island chain, northeast of Japan.
The new photo was taken June 12 from the International Space Station. NASA says volcano researchers are excited about the picture "because it captures several phenomena that occur during the earliest stages of an explosive volcanic eruption."
The main plume appears to be a combination of brown ash and white steam, according to a NASA statement. The vigorously rising plume gives the steam a bubble-like appearance.
The surrounding atmosphere has been shoved up by the shock wave of the eruption, scientists said.
Volcano plumes are so chaotic that they produce lightning, as revealed in pictures for the first time earlier this year
(Excerpt) Read more at msnbc.msn.com ...
No Honolulu, no birth certificate, problem over.
Very cool
But .. what will get in the ‘trade’?
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