Evaluation of Volcanic Cloud Top Height Retrievals Using Geostationary Satellite and Inversion Algorithm
Tjandra, K.*, Mangla R. and Salinas, S.V.

Centre for Remote Imaging, Sensing and Processing (CRISP),
National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore

Abstract

Volcanic cloud top height is an important parameter for ash dispersion models to enable a first order initialization of volcanic eruption parameters so that an accurate volcanic ash cloud dispersion pattern and eruption mass rate can be modeled. In this study, we evaluate the possible retrieval of volcanic cloud top height by exploiting the availability of satellite thermal band observations (brightness temperature, Tb) and radiative transfer simulations. Two different methods are evaluated, the first method uses only observed Tb from Geostationary satellites (Geo-Kompsat 2A and Himawari-9), and the second method is based on the Inversion algorithm that uses the satellite Tb and a radiative transfer model. A case study of the recent Lewotobi eruption on 17th June 2025 is selected for the evaluation of these two methods. The time series of estimated height from these two methods are compared with the VAAC official forecast, and the assumption of each method is discussed. This study showcases the potential of Geo-Kompsat-2A and Himawari satellite that can be used complementarily in future studies.

Keywords: remote sensing application, natural disaster management, volcanic eruptions, Lewotobi

Topic: Topic B: Applications of Remote Sensing