ABOUT KMT
Unlocking the power of magma
The Krafla Magma Testbed (KMT) is a global initiative to access magma at depth –
advancing science, enabling technology, and shaping the future of geothermal energy.
World’s first magma research facility
The Krafla Magma Testbed (KMT) is an international research and development project to drill into a magma body and create the world’s first magma observatory.
Located in the Krafla volcanic system in Iceland, KMT provides a unique opportunity to directly observe and interact with magma in its natural environment.
WHY IT MATTERS
Energy
Superhot geothermal resources have the potential to significantly increase energy output per well, offering a scalable and reliable source of clean energy.
Science
Direct access to magma enables groundbreaking research into volcanic systems and Earth’s internal processes.
Society
Improved understanding of magma systems can enhance volcanic hazard forecasting and contribute to safer communities.
Investment / Future
By reducing uncertainty and advancing technology, KMT helps unlock future geothermal development worldwide.
WHAT WE DO
Access to Magma
Drilling into magma to create a permanent observatory.
Scientific Research
Studying magma dynamics, heat transfer, and volcanic processes in real time.
Technology Testing
Testing materials, sensors, and systems under extreme subsurface conditions.
Global Collaboration
Bringing together international partners across science, industry, and policy.
Why Krafla?
Krafla is one of the world’s most researched geothermal systems and the location of a known magma body at a relatively shallow depth is known.
Krafla is a volcanic caldera in the Northeast of Iceland of about 10 km in diameter with a 90 km long fissure zone.
Krafla has been called the cradle of geothermal in Iceland and is the site of the country´s first geothermal power station.
It has been in operation for decades with over 40 boreholes and extensive support infrastructure.
In 2009, a consortium of Icelandic geothermal companies known as the Iceland Deep Drilling Project drilled a borehole (IDDP-1) at Landsvirkjun’s geothermal field in Krafla. They accidentally crossed magma at 2.1 km.