NASA has recently identified extensive ancient lava flows in California using advanced satellite imaging.
These remarkable findings showcase the state's volcanic history, revealing massive basaltic formations stretching across miles.
While California is more commonly associated with earthquakes, its volcanic past is evident in regions like the Modoc Plateau and the Lava Beds National Monument.
The satellite imagery shows intricate details of the lava flows, including their paths and cooling patterns.
Such data helps scientists understand past volcanic activity and assess potential risks from dormant or extinct volcanoes in the region.
This research also contributes to broader studies of planetary geology, as similar lava flow patterns have been observed on Mars and the Moon.
While there is no immediate volcanic threat in California, monitoring these formations provides valuable insights into Earth's dynamic processes.