An astronaut aboard the International Space Station captured a breathtaking image of the snow-covered caldera of Nemrut volcano in eastern Türkiye.

This image, not only aesthetically stunning, also offers valuable insights into the volcano's geological history and potential future.

Mount Nemrut, classified as a stratovolcano, boasts a relatively young age compared to other volcanoes in the region. Stratovolcanoes are characterized by their conical shape, built layer upon layer from the debris of past eruptions, including lava, ash, and rock fragments. While its exact age remains under investigation, estimates suggest Nemrut last erupted in 1650 CE, making it a geologically youthful giant.

The astronaut's photo reveals the caldera, a vast, cauldron-shaped depression formed by a colossal volcanic eruption that removed the summit of the volcano. The eastern half of this depression is partially filled by solidified lava flows, remnants of past fiery outbursts.

The snow blanketing the caldera accentuates a fascinating geological feature – pressure ridges. These wrinkles on the lava surface formed as the molten rock flowed and cooled, solidifying into the rugged landscape we see today. The varying sizes, thicknesses, and orientations of these ridges are a testament to the diverse consistency (viscosity) and flow direction of the lava during its fiery journey.

Nestled within the western half of the caldera, Lake Nemrut (Nemrut Gölü) adds a touch of serenity to the volcanic landscape. This freshwater lake, reaching depths of up to 176 meters, forms a crescent shape, partially submerging the ancient lava flows.

The presence of a smaller lake at the caldera's center-upper region offers a crucial clue about the volcano's current state. This smaller lake is fed by hot springs, indicating ongoing geothermal activity beneath the Earth's surface. While not a guarantee of imminent eruption, this ongoing heat source suggests that Nemrut remains a potentially active volcano.

This image, captured from the vantage point of space, serves as a powerful reminder of the dynamic forces that shape our planet. The snow-capped Nemrut volcano, with its unique geological features and potential for future activity, stands as a testament to the Earth's ever-evolving story. (ILKHA)