Monitoring Volcanic Eruptions and Forest Changes with Planetscope Constellations: A Case Study of La Palma Island

Natural disasters, such as volcanic eruptions, pose significant threats to human life and ecosystems. Remote sensing technology offers a valuable tool for monitoring these events and assessing their impacts. This study utilizes high-resolution imagery from the Planetscope constellation to investigate the 2021 volcanic eruption on La Palma Island, Spain, and its effects on surrounding forest areas. By analyzing a time series of satellite images, we aim to evaluate the sensor's capability to track the eruption's progression, focusing on monitoring lava flow growth, quantifying the area covered by volcanic material, and assessing the impact on infrastructure and settlements.

Specifically, we examine the impact on forests to assess the rate and pattern of vegetation changes, aiming to identify influencing factors such as soil fertility, climate conditions, and human intervention. Integrating remote sensing data with field observations and other complementary data sources will enable a comprehensive understanding of the volcanic eruption's impact and its long-term ecological consequences. This research contributes to the development of early warning systems, disaster response strategies, and sustainable land management practices in volcanic regions.