iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
A 2026 satellite-geodesy study modeled a shallow source about 200 meters beneath Santiago crater at Masaya Volcano in Nicaragua. The result is an inference from ground movement—not a satellite image of a magma chamber—and the study does not show that an eruption is imminent.
What did scientists find beneath Masaya?
Johnson and colleagues analyzed Sentinel-1 satellite radar data collected from January 2018 through February 2024. In the resulting 2026 paper in Geophysical Research Letters, they modeled two sources that help explain measured changes in the ground surface: a shallow source beneath Santiago crater and a deeper source beneath the center of Masaya’s caldera.
The shallow source was modeled at approximately 200 meters depth. That is the estimated depth of a point source in the authors’ deformation model; it is not a directly measured chamber boundary. EarthScope Consortium’s explainer about the study describes it as a second inferred magma reservoir, consistent with earlier work cited by the paper. “Reservoir” is an interpretation of the source of deformation, not a claim that satellites photographed molten rock underground.
Recommended Free Tools
How did satellite radar reveal the sources?
InSAR—Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar—compares radar observations taken at different times to estimate how the ground surface has shifted. The paper describes its input as “Sentinel-1 Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) time series spanning January 2018–February 2024.” The researchers fitted point-source models to the deformation patterns. Those models estimate where sources may lie and how their volume changed; they do not image the subsurface directly.
#1 Best Overall
- MORE ERUPTIONS EQUALS MORE FUN – This kids science kit packs more eruption powder than ever before! You get 3x the eruption powder, plus pop crystals which add an exciting sound to your eruptions. Science kits like this are fun for everyone!
- UNFORGETTABLE SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS – This is a great hands-on experiment kit for any science fair; the updated mold and instructions make it easy to assemble a sturdy volcano form and realistic paint colors give the volcano a lifelike look.
- YOU GET REAL VOLCANIC ROCKS – Includes a pumice and a geode specimen so your kids can see real rocks created by a volcano! A full-color learning guide teaches about each rock and provides a wealth of educational information on volcano science.
- HOME SCHOOL CLASSIC – This is a classic STEM project that teaches kids about chemistry, geology, and earth science. Plus, the volcano mold is reusable, and the learning guide provides tips on different eruptions to try with common household items!
- AWARD-WINNING PRODUCTS - Blue Marble, winner of the Toy Association's prestigious Toy of the Year Award, proudly develops products that foster education, imagination, and creativity, with a U.S. support team to ensure a stellar experience!
That distinction matters when reading the 200-meter figure: it is a model result based on surface deformation, not a depth measured by drilling or a sharp underground boundary mapped by radar.
How do the shallow and deep sources differ?
The study’s two modeled sources are at different depths and had different estimated volume changes. The figures below are the authors’ model estimates for the stated intervals, not direct measurements of magma volume.
Rank #2
- OUR BIGGEST VOLCANO EVER - This jumbo volcano kit is our biggest yet at nearly 2 feet tall! Astound friends, family, and classmates with the stunning size and exciting eruption experiments! It's the perfect hands-on experiment for any science fair.
- EASY SETUP - Kid-friendly instructions make this jumbo volcano easy to make and erupt. Layer the plaster wrap over the frame, add plaster, and once it's dry, paint it and erupt it again and again!
- MORE ERUPTIONS, MORE FUN – This kids science kit comes with 3 packets of eruption powder plus pop crystals that add exciting crackling sounds. Instructions for more eruptions from household materials are also included.
- EVERYTHING KIDS NEED - Our jumbo volcano kit has everything kids need for an amazing science project, including the volcano mold, plaster mix and tint, two paint colors, paintbrush, and more. Genuine geode and pumice specimens are also included!
- AWARD-WINNING PRODUCTS - Blue Marble, winner of the Toy Association's prestigious Toy of the Year Award, proudly develops products that foster education, imagination, and creativity, with a U.S. support team to ensure a stellar experience!
| Modeled source | Location and depth | Modeled volume change |
|---|---|---|
| Shallow Santiago source | Beneath Santiago crater; approximately 200 m | Decrease of about 4,000 m³ in 2018–2022, then decrease of about 6,000 m³ in 2022–2024 |
| Deeper caldera source | Below the center of the caldera; approximately 3,200 m | Decrease of about 1.3 × 10⁶ m³ in 2018–2022, then increase of about 4.5 × 10⁵ m³ in 2022–2024 |
The authors interpret the deeper source’s later increase as inflation associated with new magma supply from depth. The modeled changes at the shallow source were decreases in both intervals, so the two sources should not be treated as one chamber behaving uniformly.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Does the modeled inflation mean Masaya will erupt soon?
No. The paper’s modeled inflation at the deeper source is evidence of a change in the subsurface system, not by itself an eruption forecast. The authors say more inflation may be needed before renewed effusive vent activity. The study does not establish that an eruption is imminent.
Rank #3
- The Volcano Making Kit is a hands on science project that creates a simulated erupting volcano
- This kit includes fast drying plaster, volcano mold, paint, paint brush and stir stick
- Detailed instructions for use and care are included
- Requires vinegar and baking soda for eruption (not included)
- Recommended for ages 8 years and up
This paper also does not establish Masaya’s current official alert level or visitor access. Those conditions can change and should be checked through current local authorities rather than inferred from the satellite study.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Why the word “new” needs context
The shallow source was not presented as a first discovery in 2026: the authors describe it as having been inferred previously. The newer contribution is an analysis of a longer Sentinel-1 time series that models both the shallow Santiago source and a deeper source beneath the caldera, and tracks how their inferred volumes changed over the observation period.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- STEM ENGAGEMENT - Encourages kids ages 6-10 to explore earth science through hands-on volcano experiments that simulate eruptions using safe household ingredients.
- REALISTIC DESIGN - Giant 11" cross-section model reveals internal volcano structures like magma chambers and vents, helping kids visualize geology in a fun, tactile way.
- EASY CLEANUP - Built-in spill tray and removable lava tube make post-eruption cleanup simple, allowing kids to repeat experiments without mess or frustration.
- READY TO USE - No assembly required; kids and teachers can dive into learning right away with a fully built model and included guide for structured activities.
- CLASSROOM FRIENDLY - Ideal for science centers, homeschool, or therapy settings; supports lesson planning with a detailed activity guide and reusable components.
Rank #4
- Simulation of submarine volcanoes
- Very realistic model of a volcano
- Includes only 20 volcano models; no other accessories are included
- Good quality, tough ABS material
- If you have any questions, feel free to contact us
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute
