Enabling Deep Earth Access

The CAS Research Group aims to establish the first international magma observatory – the Krafla Magma Testbed (KMT). Such an observatory is not only of utmost scientific importance, but also contributes to modernising volcano monitoring and exploring the development of future magma energy sources, thereby advancing socially relevant processes. This is a pioneering project, as the group is tackling interdisciplinary challenges by developing not only the scientific concept but also a safe technical implementation for the observatory. To this end, suitable data sources are to be identified and integrated into a comprehensive numerical model that simulates the behaviour of magma during drilling. At the same time, new materials and sensor technologies are being tested for their resilience under extreme conditions. Based on the latest scientific, technological and engineering findings, a detailed research plan for the KMT will ultimately be drawn up. An international team of leading scientists from various disciplines will come together at CAS LMU to jointly create the conditions for this globally unique large-scale research project.

• Prof. Yan Lavallée (Dept. Earth and Environmental Sciences, LMU)