The memoir recounts the author's six decades of field experiments and observations on active volcanoes, describing the foundation and operation of a dedicated observatory, expeditions to volcanic regions worldwide, and the development of instruments and photographic techniques to study lava lakes, eruptions, and seismic activity. It traces the evolution of methods from early experimental geology to systematic monitoring, discusses collaborations and practical efforts to protect communities, and reflects on theoretical implications for Earth's internal processes. Illustrated with photographs and charts, it combines personal recollection, technical description of experiments and instruments, and reflections on scientific discovery and public service.