Safe volcano predictor wins award

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The helicopter flies over volcanoes to gather information

A scientist from Scotland who invented a new safer way of studying volcanoes, has won a major award.

Dr Andrew McGonigle uses a remote-controlled helicopter with a computer attached to it, to fly over the volcano and gather important information.

Experts can then work out when the volcano might erupt, so they can warn people living nearby to get away in time.

Working on volcanoes is dangerous, and in the past, people have been killed.

Click here to find out more about volcanoes

Studying volcanoes can be dangerous

Dr McGonigle said: "Up until now the only way to make that measurement has involved someone climbing up to a volcano and using an instrument from the crater's edge."

Using his idea scientists can get the same measurements, while keeping a safe distance from the volcano.

With the money he has won from the 2008 Rolex Awards for Enterprise, Dr McGonigle will be able to develop and improve on his design.