Mount Erebus

Source: https://bit.ly/2uRj8Xe Public Domain Image

Mount Erebus Facts

• Perhaps most notably of all, the incredible Mount Erebus looks like something one might expect to see in a movie scene set on another planet. In addition, the truly fabulous location holds yet another claim to fame. That holds true due to the fact that the incredible Marvel of Nature also ranks as the second highest volcano in its part of the world.
• The breathtaking volcanic mountain also forms part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. This astounding feature itself  includes over 160 known active volcanoes. Furthermore, the impressive volcano has been continuously active since 1972. In fact, this remarkable geological feature remains the most active volcano in its particular, highly remote part of the globe.
• Also worthy of note remains the fact that Sir James Clark Ross represented the first non-indigenous human in our time to see this sight. He also discovered the mount in 1841, and during an active eruption. Subsequently, he named both this site, and a companion, named Mount Terror, after his two ships. The name Erebus derives from a region in Greek mythology.
• However, detailed exploration of Mount Erebus did not occur right away. In fact, the first recorded attainment of the summit by humans occurred in 1908. But this was accomplished by a team working together. The first solo reach of the summit only occurred in 1985. Additionally, a robotic probe first explored the interior of the volcano in 1992.

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Source: https://bit.ly/2LQoF6V Photo Credit: United States Antarctic Program Public Domain Image

Mount Erebus Physical Description

The eerily breathtaking Mount Erebus today ranks as one of the most truly amazing and phenomenal ultra mountains in the world. For one thing, the volcano itself appears to have been more or less continuously active for a period of roughly 1.3 million years. For another, much like Stromboli, its combination of mild but constant activity permits the existence of long-term observation.

In addition, the summit of this mesmerizing volcano itself also sits at an incredible altitude.  This measures at about 12,448 ft (3,794 m) high. Furthermore, and quite amazingly, the apex of the mountain also contains a persistent lava lake. This remains one of only five such lava lakes on the planet known to man.

Further, its unique location has also created some unique geological features in the area. In point of fact, some of these actually exist nowhere else on Earth. Firstly, the flank of Mount Erebus remains covered with hundreds of fumaroles. Quite understandably, these volcanic features constantly emit steam in the freezing conditions.

As a result of the combination of unusual conditions, and incredible action takes place. That’s because the unique combination of super-heated steam and sub-freezing temperatures creates gigantic hollow towers of ice. Even more impressive remains the fact that some of these towers measure as much as roughly 60 ft (18.3 m) in height.

Mount Erebus Location and Modern History

Quite amazingly, the fantastic Mount Erebus formed in what easily qualifies as one of the most unexpected locations on the entire planet. That’s because the wonder of Nature formed on the extremely remote and desolate Ross Island. This island itself is also located quite deep in the region of Antarctica. It’s location further makes it the southernmost active volcano in the world.

Due partly to its remoteness and inaccessibility, its exploration occurred only relatively recently, in modern times. In fact, the first detailed exploration of the region by an official scientific team did not take place until December of 1912. Due to its great scientific importance, two of the camps used have now been recognized for their historic significance.

Not to be outdone, the amazing site also boasts the presence of numerous caves. Most of these remain closely associated with the better known fumaroles. Even in such a location, however, life appears. That’s because several varieties of fungi and bacteria make their home in the caves. Therefore, many scientist have a strong interest in studying these locations.

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