GEODES San Francisco Volcanic Field Geochemical Sampling

Abstract

In August of 2023, the NASA SSERVI GEODES team conducted a field expedition in the San Francisco Volcanic Field, northern Arizona. The field expedition had a geochemical component, with the objective of characterizing the lithological and geochemical diversity across key volcanic features. Using handheld XRF and VNIR spectrometers, field data and rock samples were collected from O'Leary Peak, Elden Mountain, Schultz Peak, SP Crater, and the Lava River Cave. Sampling strategies included targeting visually distinct lithologies and calibrating instruments with geochemical standards to ensure data accuracy. Preliminary analyses reveal diverse compositions, including rhyolites, basalts, and intermediate magmas. The collected samples will undergo detailed laboratory geochemical analysis to enhance understanding of volcanic processes and evolution in this region.