Earth and Planetary Sciences ETDs

Publication Date

Fall 12-13-2025

Abstract

Understanding the internal architecture of magmatic systems is crucial for volcanology, yet conventional geophysical techniques often lack the resolution to image their fine-scale structures. This dissertation leverages unique datasets from dense nodal arrays to investigate the upper crustal magmatic systems beneath Yellowstone Caldera, Valles Caldera, and Mount St. Helens. At Yellowstone, I processed vibroseis data to delineate the top of the modern magma reservoir and evaluate the thermal connection between the magmatic and the overlying hydrothermal systems. At Valles, 3D radial seismic anisotropy imaging reveals strong positive radial anisotropy within the reservoir, indicating an organized structure of horizontally sill-like melt layers containing 17-24% melts. At Mount St. Helens, a dense nodal array enables the detection of a previously unresolved low-velocity anomaly, demonstrating the superior resolution of nodal deployments for illuminating fine-scale volcanic features.

Degree Name

Earth and Planetary Sciences

Level of Degree

Doctoral

Department Name

Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences

First Committee Member (Chair)

Lindsay Worthington

Second Committee Member

Brandon Schmandt

Third Committee Member

Eric Lindsey

Fourth Committee Member

Fan-Chi Lin

Keywords

Yellowstone, Valles, Mount St. Helens, nodal array

Document Type

Dissertation

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