During the Submarine Ring of Fire 2006 expedition, scientists witnessed, for the first time ever, an underwater volcanic eruption. The eruption took place at the Brimstone Pit vent site on the Pacific's NW Rota-1 volcano. The team conducted multiple dives at Brimstone Pit during the expedition, finding that each one was more incredible than the last, until finally they saw glowing red lava jetting out of the vent on their final dive!
If the team were observing this type of eruptive activity on land, they would have to run for their lives! At Brimstone Pit, the pressure of 560 meters (1,837 feet) of water over the site reduces the power of the explosive bursts. Also, the water quickly slows down the rocks and ash that are violently thrown out of the vent, making it possible to observe safely using a remotely operated vehicle.
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Video courtesy of Submarine Ring of Fire 2006 Expedition, NOAA/PMEL.