How does volcanism in and around the oceans affect our lives?

This is the key question that the Magmatic and Hydrothermal Systems (MuHS) group at GEOMAR is trying to answer. We are studying the tectonics of the seafloor and the magma that is created in depth.

Our objects of study range from layers of ash that are deposited on the seafloor after massive, climate-influencing eruptions to the longest chain of active volcanoes in the world - the global mid-ocean ridge system.

We are investigating how the volcanically active seafloor can be used sustainably for the benefit of society and what threats these volcanoes could pose to people around the world.

Much of our research is exploratory in nature - the seafloor is so little known that we often work in regions that no one has seen before. Getting to these areas, making observations and collecting samples means spending a lot of time on research vessels and using advanced technology and robotic systems to create detailed maps, take photos and take samples.

Working groups of research unit MuHS