Retrieval of Plume Heights from Volcanic Eruptions Observed by MISR

This paper describes preliminary results from a project which aims to provide volcanic injection height as a constraint for climate models that predict environmental impacts of volcanic eruptions. By collecting and analyzing injection heights and their relationships with other factors, we aim to understand how much of an effect the eruptions have on climate, wind systems, energy budget and water cycle. Using stereo imaging, we digitized both major and minor volcanic plumes observed by MISR from 2000-2014 to extract height data and compare it to VEI (Volcanic Explosivity Index) and SO2 emissions. From the data, we have learned that the heights of volcanic plumes are influenced by factors in addition to those that comprise VEI.