This Explorer Just Went Into The Middle Of The World's Most Active Volcano

Remember when George Kourounis stood at the edge of a hot molten lava spewing volcano and took a selfie?
Friend and adventurer Sam Cossman who originally filmed the footage of George took his love for exploring to another level.
These new images show Sam delving deep into one of the most active lava lakes in the world. Standing only 10 metres away from the harrowing Marum crater, which is one of only seven lava lakes on the planet, located on the remote island of Ambrym, in the Republic of Vanuatu.


The aim of the expedition was to survey a volcanic crater with cutting edge technology, including a drone mounted camera. The footage it captured using photography software was extraordinary.
Sam and his crew were able to create the first virtual environment of a real volcano enabling volcanologists around the world to undertake virtual field research for the very first time, As well as collecting lava samples to understand how life can exist in extreme environments in this world and beyond.
Looking down from 1200 ft, to put that into perspective: that is the same vertical height as the Empire State Building
Sam explains: “Further down you want so badly to take your mask off, but it’s just impossible, you take one breath of that super heated gas and that’s the end.”
Venturing further down only a deadly 30m away from the active volcano Sam had to wear a custom built industrial heat suit built to withstand radiant temperatures of up to 3000 degrees Fahrenheit.
Story continues below pictures....


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in the most protective gear he could find, very brave... I guess...