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A new study shows that vegetation near volcanoes becomes greener as underground magma releases carbon dioxide, which is absorbed by nearby plants. These subtle changes in leaf color and photosynthesis can now be detected from space, thanks to satellites like Landsat 8 and ESA’s Sentinel-2.As magma rises, it emits carbon dioxide long before sulfur dioxide, making it one of the earliest warning signs of volcanic activity. But detecting CO₂ from orbit has been nearly impossible—until now. By analyzing tree responses as a proxy for volcanic gas emissions, scientists have opened a new pathway for early warnings.This interdisciplinary effort, led by NASA, the Smithsonian Institution, and multiple universities, combines botany, volcanology, and satellite imaging. It could be especially valuable in remote areas, where installing ground-based sensors is dangerous and costly. Researchers hope this method can enhance early-warning systems—giving communities more time to evacuate and save lives.While not a standalone solution, this technique could become a powerful part of the global toolkit to monitor Earth’s 1,350+ active volcanoes—and predict eruptions before they strike.Source: James R. Riordon, "NASA Satellite Images Could Provide Early Volcano Warnings" (NASA)