A delegation of nine scientists from the University of Padua (Italy) is visiting Lanzarote these days to carry out a series of geological studies in the Volcanic Tube of La Corona. Founded in 1222, the University of Padua is one of the oldest and most prestigious in Europe, internationally recognized for its research in astronomy and space science, and for its collaborations with the European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA. In addition, it manages the Astronomical Observatory of Padua, one of the most important in Italy.
The Councilor of the UNESCO World Geopark of Lanzarote and Chinijo Archipelago, Samuel Martín, has highlighted the importance of these scientific collaborations, since "the impressive geological structure of the La Corona Tube provides an optimal environment for research due to its excellent degree of conservation." In addition, he stressed that "this type of campaign has already been carried out in previous years, which demonstrates the continued interest of the international scientific community in our geopark."
Current research has focused on laser scanner detection in caves, geological studies of collapses on pyroclastic materials and their analysis as analogues to lunar and Martian samples. The studies include surveying with a laser scanner, as well as geophysical surveying with a gravimeter and magnetometer of the volcanic tube.
Volcanology and planetary sciences
This research team, led by geologists Francesco Sauro and Riccardo Pozzobon, regularly works in close collaboration with the Geopark Lanzarote and Chinijo Archipelago because the experts from the University of Padua are part of the scientific collaborators of the Museum of the House of Volcanoes, which enhances the exchange of knowledge in the field of volcanology and planetary sciences.
Precisely, Francesco Sauro, who has confirmed that they will return with more research programs and doctoral students, wanted to thank the Cabildo and Geoparque Lanzarote "for their unconditional support", stating that they consider Lanzarote "a site of global importance to study terrestrial and planetary geology."
The Volcanic Tube of La Corona, with more than seven kilometers in length, is one of the most precious natural treasures of the island and has been the subject of recent geoconservation works promoted by the Geopark Lanzarote and Chinijo Archipelago. These initiatives seek to preserve its incalculable international geological value and guarantee its conservation for future research.