From glaciers to volcanoes: the 2019 Iceland Field School in photos
Photos by Susan Smythe, Department of Geography and the Environment
As participants in the June 2019 Iceland Field School, 12 students and three instructors spent four weeks in classes at Douglas prior to travelling to Iceland.
Once there, they explored the breathtaking landscape and studied how this island nation is working to provide opportunities for alternative energy and sustainable development, including waste management services, energy use, biodiversity and urban design.
Additionally, the group learned about the processes that shape the Earth’s surface, such as glaciers, rivers, tectonics and more by visiting geysers, active fumaroles and volcanic landscapes. They also investigated Iceland’s role within the North Atlantic region, its history, culture and socio-economic environment.
Learn more about the Iceland Field School here.
The Vestmannaeyjar, or Westman Islands, are home to the largest Atlantic puffin colony in the world. 
Students explore the traditional turf houses built by Icelanders as early as the 14th century. 
The Bridge Between the Continents, with the North American tectonic plate to the right and the Eurasian tectonic plate to the left. 
A tumulus, where lava has pooled up and started to harden at the outer edges while more lava flowed into the centre. 
Lunch near the Reykjanes lighthouse. The rock formations are complex and show evidence of volcanic eruptions into either the sea or the underside of a glacier. 
Taking an Icelandic power nap on the wooly fringe moss that covers older lava fields. 
The Blue Lagoon is composed of geothermal power plant wastewater that didn’t drain back into the subsurface. Now it’s the site of a fancy spa where guests can soak in mineral-rich waters. 
Black sand beaches and sea stacks on Reynisfjara Beach. 
The lava flows at Reynifjara have cooled and contracted into columns. 
The Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon and its resident icebergs. 
Lunch on route to the Jökulsárlón Lagoon. 
Exploring the largest glacier in Europe at
Vatnajökull National Park.
Discovering Gljúfrabúi, a hidden waterfall. 
In 1973, Eldfell volcano erupted and lava nearly cut off the harbour entrance to Heimaey. 
A student stands at the summit of Eldfell volcano. 
Gullfoss, a waterfall located in the canyon of the Hvítá River. 
Hallgrimskirkja in Reykjavik, the largest church in Iceland. 
2019 Iceland Field School group at the Sun Voyager sculpture in Reykjavik.
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