Hello Brandon - Most of our satellites have trouble seeing through dense clouds - either meteorological or ash. Satellite radar, such as Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) can see through clouds, but we have only limited, infrequent views on this platform. When we cannot see the volcano in satellite images, we're dependent on other monitoring tools, such as seismic stations, infrasound, and GPS. Hope this is helpful, Cheryl -------- Brandon Espinoza wrote: Good afternoon! I am trying to find out how, if at all possible, satellites can see THROUGH volcanic ash to maintain the monitoring of Earths surface in the event of an eruption? For example, how do you continue monitoring volcanoes if a large ash cloud is over it? Thank you for your time! -Brandon -- Cheryl Cameron Geologist, Alaska Volcano Observatory Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys voice: 907-451-5012 fax: 907-451-5050