The Volcanic Valve: Steam, Schemes, and Slightly Singed Scientists

What if a volcano could be switched on like a machine?

That question drives one of the boldest scientific schemes ever imagined. Professor Van Wagener is certain that volcanoes operate like gigantic boilers. Steam builds beneath hardened lava until pressure becomes unbearable. His solution sounds simple enough: install a massive “safety valve” inside the mountain. Release steam when you want quiet. Pump water into the depths when you want a spectacular eruption.

To investors, the proposal sou...