In the Dallol crater, the geothermal activity increases the temperature even further, so the brine water reaching the surface is about 100C. As well as the sweltering heat, the scientists have to cope with toxic hydrogen sulphide gas, not to mention chlorine vapour burning their airways and choking their lungs. They must all wear gas masks to work there for any period of time.

“When walking on the geothermal area you must be careful, as the salt crust is extremely delicate and fragile so you must be careful not to step on it,” says Cavalazzi. “If you fell into 100C hot and extremely acidic water it would be a big problem, as the closest hospital is in Mek’ele, which is many hours away from the Dallol crater. When I go to the region I always take an Afar guide, as they know exactly where to go and where to step.”

The first few expeditions in 2013 were simply focused on figuring out how to work in Danakil. “You can’t bring a fridge or chemicals to store samples in, so you need to think very hard and plan what you are going to do,” says Cavalazzi.

In spring 2016, the researchers finally began collecting samples from the hot springs and pools, hoping they would contain life. They also measured the temperatures and pH of the pools. They returned in January 2017 to collect more samples.