The magic project: genesis, implementation, and results

The Magic Project was conceived following a submarine-generated tsunami at Stromboli in 2002. Recognizing the lack of knowledge on submarine geohazards, the Italian Civil Protection Department launched the project in 2007, aiming to map marine geohazards features along Italian coasts using multibeam sonar data. The project involved the entire Italian marine geology community, comprising 19 research units (belenonging to 3 CNR Institutes, 7 Universities and OGS-Trieste). The primary goal was to create a comprehensive map of geohazard features across the Italian seas, using standardized methodologies for data acquisition, interpretation, and cartographic representation. The goal was achieved through reiterative discussion and analysis of preliminary cartographic products among the whole research community. Seventy-four maps at a scale of 1:50,000 were produced and are available through the Civil Protection website and, despite challenges, such as technical setbacks and increased fuel costs, the project was highly successful. Its results are beneficial both for civil protection aims and for scientific research, improving understanding of marine geohazards and promoting collaborative research.