August 2, 2024—Sulfur Cone gas monitoring maintenance

A Hawaiian Volcano Observatory gas scientist works to install a newly calibrated Multi-Gas instrument at the Sulfur Cone site. At an elevation of 3,430 meters (11,240 feet) above sea level, the air is rare! Working conditions are far more strenuous for HVO field teams at these high elevations due to the much lower levels of oxygen in the air to breathe. Low and slow is the name of the game at these high altitudes. A buddy system is necessary while installing this highly sensitive equipment as high altitude can hinder mental acuteness...in this case, two brains are better than one! USGS photo by C. Sealing.