First Post-Eruption Look at Ruby Seamount

During our NA180 expedition in the waters of the Mariana Archipelago, we used ROV Little Hercules and Atalanta to explore Ruby Seamount. Located only 50 km northwest of Saipan, this active underwater volcano experienced a short-lived submarine eruption in September 2023 that produced large ash plumes on the ocean surface and major changes to its underwater summit. Multibeam surveys help us document eruption-related morphology and mass redistribution, but with this remotely operated vehicle dive, we were able to put “eyes” on the volcano to characterize newly exposed stratigraphy, identify volcanic deposits, and document biological and hydrothermal changes. 

In this highlight video from the first visual observations of Ruby after the 2023 eruption, you’ll learn all about the history of this volcanically active seamount and how we explore and study the deep-sea’s geological activity. Join our team led by Dr. Ashton Flinders from the U.S. Geological Survey to explore Ruby Seamount in real time and learn all about volcanology from our expert geologists!

Ocean Exploration Trust's Deep-Sea Habitats in the Mariana Islands I & II (NA179 & NA180) expeditions are primarily supported by NOAA Ocean Exploration via the Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute, with additional support from the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management for AUV Sentry’s participation.