Are volcanoes unique to Earth—or are they erupting across the solar system?

In this episode of the Lava Academy Podcast, hosts Iain MacKinnon and Ragnhildur Ágústsdóttir (AKA Lady Lava) sit down with Iceland’s beloved science communicator, and author Sævar Helgi Bragason for a mind-expanding journey beyond our planet.

Together, they explore volcanic activity on Mars, Venus, and Jupiter’s moon Io, icy cryovolcanoes on distant moons, and even evidence of eruptions on Pluto. Sævar explains how gravity, internal heat, and planetary forces create volcanoes in places far beyond Earth—and what studying them teaches us about our own planet’s past and future.

The conversation also touches on Iceland’s iconic volcanoes, why eruptions inspire awe rather than fear, and how volcanoes are essential to the story of life on Earth. To top it off, Sævar shares his passion for astronomy and gives an exciting preview of the total solar eclipse visible from Iceland in August 2026—an event he describes as one of nature’s most powerful experiences.

If you love volcanoes, space, science, or simply great storytelling, this episode is for you.

Listen now and explore volcanoes on Earth—and beyond. Links Sævar Helgi Bragason helps you see the northern lights, and prepare for the 2026 Solar Eclipse with these websites:

• Iceland at Night
• Eclipse 26

In this fascinating episode of the Lava Academy Podcast, we dive into the fiery intersection of volcanoes, carbon science, and the future of our planet. Hosts Iain MacKinnon, Lava Master at Lava Show, and Ragnhildur Ágústsdóttir, Founder of Lava Show (aka Lady Lava), welcome two remarkable guests:

• Professor Philip Ringrose — Energy Transition Geoscientist at NTNU in Trondheim, specializing in underground CO₂ storage and the role of geology in solving the climate crisis.
• Chloé Delbé — PhD researcher studying CO₂ detection over volcanic regions using cutting-edge satellite technology.

Together, they explore some of the biggest questions in earth science today: • How much CO₂ do volcanoes actually emit? • Can basalt — the very lava we melt at Lava Show — help store carbon safely underground? • Why is Iceland such a unique “geological weirdo,” and what can it teach the world? • How can satellites detect volcanic gases from space with astonishing accuracy? • And what misconceptions still hold back climate solutions like CO₂ storage?

This episode blends engaging storytelling with accessible science, making complex topics feel down-to-earth (and occasionally molten-hot). Whether you’re a volcano enthusiast, a climate science follower, or simply curious about how the planet works, this conversation offers surprising insights and plenty of “I never knew that!” moments.

Listen now and discover how Iceland’s geology may help shape a cooler, more sustainable future.

• TROPOMI
• OCO-2
• Air Quality in Iceland

What keeps Reykjavík warm, powers homes, and even heats the sidewalks in the middle of winter? In this episode of the Lava Academy Podcast, we uncover Iceland’s biggest energy secret: geothermal power.

Our guest, Kári Valgeirsson, geologist and science communicator at the

The Geothermal Exhibition at Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant joins hosts Ian MacKinnon and Ragnhildur Ágústsdóttir to explain how Iceland harnesses volcanic heat deep below the surface. From drilling into geothermal reservoirs (think sponge, not lake!) to the role of volcanic systems and basalt bedrock, Kári breaks down the science in a way everyone can understand.

We explore:

• How geothermal energy is formed and why Iceland is uniquely suited for it.

• The history of Iceland’s transition from oil to renewables.

• Everyday impacts—from heating homes and pools to powering cities.

• The exciting future of super-critical geothermal projects like the Krafla Magma Testbed.

Whether you’re fascinated by volcanoes, curious about clean energy, or planning a trip to Iceland, this episode offers insights you won’t want to miss.

👉 Listen now and discover how Iceland turns lava and heat into one of the cleanest energy systems in the world.

Shownotes

• The Geothermal Exhibition at Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant
• Iceland Deep Drilling Project
• Krafla Magma Testbed