Icelandic reminiscence
The Sheffield University South Iceland Expedition approaching Heimaey in 1973 (© A. Massey)
Dear Editors,
In the Autumn 2025 edition, Dr Rhian Meara presents a lovely example of how working within the Earth sciences can lead to a range of careers, sometimes unthought of when setting out (Geoscientist 35(3), 40-44, 2025).
Rhian describes her deep connection with the Icelandic island of Heimaey and how the impact of the 1973 eruption on the local community was a driver in altering her career towards the social sciences.
Her beautiful photographs reminded me of a cold overcast June day in 1973, when as a member of the Sheffield University South Iceland Expedition we had the good fortune to see Heimaey within months of the eruption.
We were on the MS Gullfoss ferry from Leith to Reykjavik when it dropped off supplies and passengers at Heimaey. It was a remarkable sight, especially for many in our team who had only just graduated as geologists. We sailed past the still hot and steaming lava front which had reduced the once wide harbour mouth to a channel barely wide enough for the ship to navigate.
A fellow passenger returning home to Heimaey after two years away told us that when he left there was only one mountain, now there were two!
Andrew Massey, FGS
Retired Engineering Geologist, Brisbane, Australia
The Sheffield University South Iceland Expedition approaching the ash-covered township of Heimaey in 1973. The ‘new’ second mountain is visible to the left (© A. Massey)
