NASA satellites have captured images of a mysterious “ghost island” that briefly emerged in the Caspian Sea before vanishing without a trace. The island was formed by a mud volcano eruption off the coast of Azerbaijan and lasted for only two years.
The phenomenon has sparked questions about the underlying processes that gave rise to this transient landmass. Scientists are fascinated by the dynamic interplay of tectonic forces in the Caspian region, where landforms can appear and disappear within months.
Mud volcanoes, like the Kumani Bank mud volcano in Azerbaijan, are unique geological features capable of ejecting mud, gas, and sediment in explosive bursts. The eruptions occur when underground pressures force these materials to the surface, often in areas with abundant hydrocarbons.
The 2023 eruption of the Kumani Bank mud volcano produced an island that quickly became a point of fascination due to its impermanence and dramatic display of geological volatility. Satellite images captured the island’s sudden birth and equally swift disappearance, with it retreating “like an apparition.”
Experts say that the Caspian region is uniquely positioned within a tectonic convergence zone where the Arabian and Eurasian plates collide. This collision has made Azerbaijan a hotspot for mud volcanoes, with over 300 identified in the area.
While ghost islands like the one in the Caspian Sea are fascinating to study, they also underscore the potential hazards of mud volcanoes. The sudden release of gas and sediment can pose risks to nearby environments and infrastructure.
The phenomenon highlights the power of tectonic forces at play beneath the Earth’s surface, making it a reminder of the need for continued scientific research and monitoring in this unique geological region.
Source: https://dailygalaxy.com/2025/01/nasa-spots-mysterious-ghost-island