Evolution and current state of continuous volcano gravimetry

Abstract

Most processes controlling volcanic activity involve underground mass redistribution (e.g., magma accumulation or withdrawal). Because of its unique ability to provide direct information on subsurface mass/density changes over time, gravimetry has important advantages over other volcano-monitoring techniques. As an example, if pre-eruptive magma accumulation occurs in voids, surface uplift or seismicity may not occur because the stress transmitted to the surrounding rock is not enough to induce fracturing or deformation; nevertheless, the addition of new mass would be associated with a gravity increase that may be measurable at the surface [1].