Kasatochi Island

Kasatochi Island is a small volcanic island in the central Aleutian Islands of Alaska and is part of the Aleutian volcanic arc and the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. It is uninhabited and dominated by a stratovolcano structure.

In August 2008 the volcano produced a large explosive eruption that removed most vegetation and disrupted seabird populations across the island. The eruption deposited ash and pyroclastic material and substantially changed the island’s surface and ecology.

Since the eruption the island has been the subject of ongoing scientific monitoring and ecological studies of seabird recolonisation and vegetation recovery. Landings are restricted and visits are generally carried out for research and monitoring purposes.

Kasatochi lies in the central Aleutians, within Alaska’s island chain, and is reached only by sea or air under controlled conditions.

• 2008 eruption: A major volcanic eruption in August 2008 dramatically altered the island's surface and eliminated much of its pre-eruption seabird colonies, making it a focus of ecological study and monitoring.
• Access and status: The island is uninhabited and is part of Alaska's Aleutian volcanic arc; access is generally limited to scientific teams and permitted research visits.