Nicknamed the “Volcano Devils,” Katia and Maurice Krafft were both known to be inspirations for volcanology. Their stubbornness and enthusiasm earned them the title of exceptional human beings, eager to pursue and discover the mysteries of the planet. Born in France in 1942, Catherine Josephine Conrad, also known as Katia, developed her interest in volcanoes from a very young age. Katia met her husband, Maurice Krafft, at the Strasbourg University in France and ever since then, the couple developed a mutual interest in volcanology.
The couple funded their research in volcanoes, providing photographs and videos about volcano eruptions. According to a scientific journal, The Bulletin of Volcanology, in 1992, Jorg Keller stated that the couple shared many different photographs and video clips of volcano eruptions, simultaneously also warning others about the vital precautions necessary. By traveling to different volcano sites and capturing the moments, they were able to fund their research, intriguing their audience. Katia and Maurice had a genuine passion for volcanology, and they were willing to dedicate their time to educate others about the values and dangers of volcanoes.
Katia and Maurice persevered in their commitment to enlighten themselves about volcanoes, yet they encountered problematic circumstances. For example, in the 1987 documentary The Volcano Watchers, Katia and Maurice pursued their mission on Mount Stromboli which was located in Southern Italy. While trying to collect rock samples, they encountered volcano vapors rising from the edges which had a possibility of enabling a dangerous environment; however, with the help of metallic suits and suitable helmets, they were able to pursue their mission. It wasn’t until June, 1991, when unfortunately, their dedication was terminated upon their demise at a sudden volcano eruption on Mount Unzen in Japan. A high temperature pyroclastic flow going at a speed of 100 miles per hour killed about 41 people including the Kraffts.
Works Cited
Six Women in Science You Should Know, Megan Bartels, JSTOR Daily, 2017
https://daily.jstor.org/six-women-in-science-you-should-know/
Katia Krafft, Tom Ward, Atlas Obscura, 2022
https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/katia-krafft-volcanologist
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Hello! My name is Nazifa and I am a rising senior in high school. I am a blog writer volunteer at this organization, showcasing my knowledge of various concepts in STEM.
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