Scientists drill deepest rock sample from Earth’s mantle

Scientists have achieved a significant milestone by drilling the deepest hole ever into Earth’s mantle, obtaining a large rock sample from 4,160 feet (1,268 meters) below the Atlantic seabed. This breakthrough provides new insights into the mantle, which makes up over 80% of the planet’s volume.
Key Findings and Details
- Drilling Location: The sample was taken from the Atlantis Massif, an underwater mountain in the Atlantic Ocean. This area is known for exposing mantle rock at the seafloor.
- Drilling Depth: Researchers used the ocean drilling vessel JOIDES Resolution to drill approximately 2,800 feet (850 meters) beneath the ocean surface from April to June 2023.
- Sample Size: The core sample recovered is 2,907 feet (886 meters) long, marking a record for mantle rock drilling.
Scientific Insights
- Composition and Interaction: The cylindrical core sample provides valuable information about the composition of the upper mantle and the chemical interactions between mantle rock and seawater. These interactions might have played a crucial role in the origin of life on Earth billions of years ago.
- Historical Context: Previous drilling attempts have been limited to no deeper than 656 feet (200 meters) and had low rock recovery rates. The recent success marks a substantial improvement.
Research Significance
- Geological Understanding: This study enhances our knowledge of Earth’s mantle, a layer situated between the crust and the core, and its role in the planet’s geological and biological processes.
- Future Exploration: The findings could inform future research and exploration efforts, potentially offering more clues about the conditions that led to the emergence of life on Earth.
Expert Comment
- Johan Lissenberg (Cardiff University): The lead author of the study highlighted the significance of this drilling achievement, noting the increased depth and quality of the mantle rock recovery compared to previous attempts.