Abstract The HOTSAT multiplatform system for the analysis of infrared data from satellites provides a framework that allows the detection of volcanic hotspots and an output of their associated radiative power. This multiplatform system can operate on both Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer and Spinning Enhanced Visible and Infrared Imager data. The new version of the system is now implemented on graphics processing units and its interface is available on the internet under restricted access conditions. Combining the estimation of time-varying discharge rates using HOTSAT with the MAGFLOW physics-based model to simulate lava flow paths resulted in the first operational system in which satellite observations drive the modelling of lava flow emplacement. This allows the timely definition of the parameters and maps essential for hazard assessment, including the propagation time of lava flows and the maximum run-out distance. The system was first used in an operational context during the paroxysmal episode at Mt Etna on 12–13 January 2011, when we produced real-time predictions of the areas likely to be inundated by lava flows while the eruption was still ongoing. This allowed key at-risk areas to be rapidly and appropriately identified.

Abstract RED SEED stands for Risk Evaluation, Detection and Simulation during Effusive Eruption Disasters, and combines stakeholders from the remote sensing, modelling and response communities with experience in tracking volcanic effusive events. The group first met during a three day-long workshop held in Clermont Ferrand (France) between 28 and 30 May 2013. During each day, presentations were given reviewing the state of the art in terms of (a) volcano hot spot detection and parameterization, (b) operational satellite-based hot spot detection systems, (c) lava flow modelling and (d) response protocols during effusive crises. At the end of each presentation set, the four groups retreated to discuss and report on requirements for a truly integrated and operational response that satisfactorily combines remote sensors, modellers and responders during an effusive crisis. The results of collating the final reports, and follow-up discussions that have been on-going since the workshop, are given here. We can reduce our discussions to four main findings. (1) Hot spot detection tools are operational and capable of providing effusive eruption onset notice within 15 min. (2) Spectral radiance metrics can also be provided with high degrees of confidence. However, if we are to achieve a truly global system, more local receiving stations need to be installed with hot spot detection and data processing modules running on-site and in real time. (3) Models are operational, but need real-time input of reliable time-averaged discharge rate data and regular updates of digital elevation models if they are to be effective; the latter can be provided by the radar/photogrammetry community. (4) Information needs to be provided in an agreed and standard format following an ensemble approach and using models that have been validated and recognized as trustworthy by the responding authorities. All of this requires a sophisticated and centralized data collection, distribution and reporting hub that is based on a philosophy of joint ownership and mutual trust. While the next chapter carries out an exercise to explore the viability of the last point, the detailed recommendations behind these findings are detailed here.

Extracting knowledge from the rock record stored in databases is one of the primary goals of the information-oriented geoscientist. This activity requires well-designed organizational structures to facilitate queries, and ultimately cyber-aided geological research. Such structures need to encompass information about geologic objects and the processes that affect or produce the objects. Therefore, our goal is to create a prototype of a computer-based knowledge environment that specifically reflects the reasoning used by a geoscientist, with the recognition that his/her primary interest lies in understanding processes that affect the rock record. In order to start development of such capabilities, we have utilized an organization of attributes and their definitions to construct a database schema for field-based igneous rocks, and show that its conversion into a knowledge base requires the application of both object and process ontologies.

Geospatial Network (GeoNet) is a distributed information system accessible through the Internet that will permit users from the geoscience community to share and contribute knowledge from the transition zone between the Colorado Plateau and the Basin and Range province. Specifically, the goals of GeoNet are to facilitate the access, analysis, and visualization of geospatial data for use by scientists, policymakers, educators, and the general public. The types of geospatial data provided through GeoNet include satellite imagery, gravity, heat flow, digital elevation models, remote sensing, seismicity, active faults, and basic geographic data. This paper, written as a primer, describes how state-of-the-art technology is being used to realize GeoNet's goals. It also discusses GeoNet's layered architecture and shows how this architecture supports software applications deployed as service-oriented components. Ontologies based on the emerging OWL Web ontology language standard are used to enhance knowledge discovery. Use-case scenarios describe the features of GeoNet and the expected sequences of interaction between GeoNet and different classes of users. GeoNet's design will permit its functionality and data sets to be integrated with the GEON (Geosciences Network) grid and, thus, will contribute to the larger geoscience community.

The completeness of an exploration project is of crucial importance for making a decision to start or to give up a mining investment, or to continue the exploration to get complementary information. The authors discuss this problem on the example of the Halimba bauxite deposit, Hungary. Two-hundred thirty-seven core drills were executed on a 14 ha area. Resource calculations were carried out in 12 subsequent stages by fuzzy arithmetic with the aim to quantify the uncertainties of ore tonnage and grade. Prior information and prior probabilities were applied to complete the exploration data. Their validity was checked by the subsequent stages. Ranges of influence for the main variables were calculated by geostatistical methods (variograms). Spatial variability and spatial continuity of the orebodies were mathematically evaluated. The authors found that there is no single “overall” value to express the completeness of a mineral exploration program, but the main geological, mining, and economic factors must be evaluated separately and ranked according to their importance. The reliability of the results can be quantified by the application of new “uncertainty-oriented” mathematical methods.