Askja Volcano sits in the Central Highlands and is an active volcano consisting of nested calderas around the Dyngjufjöll Mountains. Even its name means caldera or box in Icelandic. Askja Volcano in Iceland is still an active volcano and a popular destination for tourists but due to the remote location, it is accessible only during certain parts of the year. Askja is notorious not only for its activity but also for missing scientists.
Where is the Location of Askja Volcano in Iceland?
Askja is located in Central iceland with geographic coordinates 65.0111° N, 16.7485° W. Situated in the remote central highlands, Askja was unknown until 1875 when it erupted.
When did Askja Volcano Erupt last time?
The Askja Volcano last erupted in 1961. However, the largest eruption took place on March 29, 1875. The eruption triggered ashfall, heavy enough to kill animal life and poison the lands.
What are the Features of Caldera of Askja?
Askja has unusually rugged peaks that rise up to 1.516 meters in height. The peaks encircle the lake that fills the caldera. The Askja Volcano is surrounded by a large lava field named Ódádhahraun. Ódádhahraun covers an area of 3.681 square kilometers.
What are the scientific expeditions for Askja Volcano?
Because of the unusual terrains and rigged surface, the area around the Askja Volcano is actively used for training NASA astronauts. The goal of the training was to prepare them for lunar missions. In 1907, the German scientists Walter von Knebel and Max Rudloff disappeared on the lake while studying the Askja caldera.
What are the Tours for Askja Iceland?
Tours for Iceland often include Askja visits. The volcano is popular because of the picturesque scenery around it as well as the lake-filled crater. It should be noted that there are many guided tours to Askja available but not year-round.
What are the Lakes close to the Askja Iceland?
Lakes in Iceland can be found inside volcanic craters and the Askja caldera is no exception. The lake within Askja is called Öskjuvatn. Öskjuvatn fills the caldera that formed in 1875 and covers an area of 12 square kilometers. Öskjuvatn is the number two deepest lake in the Iceland with a maximum depth of 220 meters. When it originally appeared it was warm but now is mostly frozen.
