Satellite Captures a Fiery Spectacle: March 13, 2026 Photo‑of‑the‑Day Shows Volcano Erupting in Real Time

A weather‑monitoring satellite orbiting Earth caught a dramatic, high‑resolution snapshot of an active volcano spewing ash and lava on March 13, 2026. The image, selected as Space.com’s Photo of the Day, reveals a glowing plume that stretches dozens of kilometers into the sky, illuminated by the sun’s rays and casting a faint orange glow over the surrounding landscape. Scientists say the volcano, located on the remote island of Kilauea, has been showing increased activity over the past week, and the satellite’s eyes‑in‑the‑sky view provides valuable data for tracking the eruption’s intensity and potential impact on air travel. The picture not only dazzles with its raw beauty but also underscores how modern satellite technology helps researchers monitor natural hazards in near‑real time, improving warning systems for nearby communities. Experts explain that the infrared sensors aboard the satellite can measure the temperature of the lava flow, while the visible‑light camera captures the dramatic visual spectacle that social media users are already sharing worldwide. As the eruption continues, the satellite will keep sending updates, giving volcanologists a front‑row seat to one of nature’s most powerful displays.

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