Drilling at Santorini Volcano, Greece

Abstract

Metalliferous hydrothermal systems and other volcanic manifestations related to subduction zones are well known from areas like the Aegean (Santorini), the Kuriles (at Ebeko volcano, for example), and off the Antarctic Peninsula (Deception Island). Iron‐rich deposits have been encountered at all these sites [Gorshkov, 1958; Elderfield, 1972]. However, direct observations through a cross section of such hydrothermal systems seem to be lacking, despite the existence of extensive studies over the last few decades of processes related to the genesis o f metalliferous hydrothermal systems, made partly through the international seafloor drilling program. It is apparent that such cross‐sectional observations could greatly advance our understanding of ore‐forming processes and hydrothermal systems. The Santorini island group in the southern Aegean Sea (Figure 1) is an ideal site for study, from both scientific and logistical points of view.