Cotopaxi volcano, Ecuador, is considered by some as the world’s highest active volcano with an elevation of 5910 m (19,388 ft) and last significant eruption (VEI 3) in 1904.  A unique and hazardous feature of Cotopaxi is a glacier on the upper flanks of the volcano, which has resulted in lahar formation during eruptive episodes.  Using 6 Global Positioning System (GPS) stations located on and around Cotopaxi, we are investigating the activity of the volcano.  Deformation can be caused by magma migration in the volcano and is most prevalent before, during, and/or after volcanic activity.

Instituto Geofisico – Escuela Politechnic Nacional website

Smithsonian Institution Global Volcanism Program

Other Images of Cotopaxi

Volcano.oregonstate.edu/Cotopaxi