Geophysicists unite to validate volcanic SO2 measurements

Since sulfur dioxide in volcanic eruption clouds was first measured by the total ozone mapping spectrometer (TOMS) in 1983 [Krueger, 1983], SO2 released from dozens of eruptions has been quantified. Such measurements are invaluable for addressing such problems as global climate change and dynamics, understanding the physical and chemical processes of magma chambers and volcanic eruptions, and volcanic hazards. However, validating the TOMS SO2 retrievals has been difficult due to the fleeting nature of volcanic clouds. An important goal of this validation program is to extend the range of eruptions that can be accurately measured by both ground and satellite instruments.