An intriguing discovery was made during an expedition to a deep-sea ridge just north of the Hawaiian Islands back in 2022. The exploration vessel Nautilus stumbled upon an ancient dried-up lakebed that appeared to be paved with what looked like a yellow brick road. This surprising find took place in the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM), one of the largest marine conservation areas in the world.
The PMNM spans a vast area, larger than all the national parks in the US combined, yet we have only explored about 3 percent of its seafloor. This untouched wilderness lies more than 3,000 meters (9,843 feet) below the ocean’s surface, presenting a unique opportunity for research and discovery. The Ocean Exploration Trust, responsible for the expedition, is at the forefront of exploring this mysterious underwater world.
A highlight reel of the expedition’s footage, shared on YouTube in April 2022, showcased the moment researchers operating the deep-sea vehicle came across the yellow brick road-like formation. The team was astounded by the discovery, with one researcher exclaiming, “It’s the road to Atlantis,” while another suggested, “The yellow brick road?” The dry appearance of the lakebed, located on the summit of the Nootka seamount, added to the mystery.
The formation on the lakebed was identified as a fractured flow of hyaloclastite rock, a volcanic rock formed in high-energy eruptions where rock fragments settle on the seabed. The ground appeared dry and almost like a “baked crust” that could be peeled off, with some sections displaying fractures resembling bricks. These unique 90-degree fractures were likely caused by heating and cooling stress from multiple volcanic eruptions in the area.
Despite being hidden beneath a thousand meters of water, the lakebed offered a glimpse into Earth’s hidden geology. The discovery highlighted how little we have explored of the deep seafloor, with a 2025 study revealing that humans have visually explored only between 0.0006 and 0.001 percent of this vast ecosystem. The exploration of the Liliʻuokalani Ridge is a step in the right direction towards understanding more about our planet’s hidden geological features.
The significance of this discovery goes beyond just a fascinating sight underwater. It represents a pathway to uncovering more about Earth’s ancient seamounts and the life that exists within them. The research conducted during the expedition is shedding light on the rocky slopes of these deep, ancient seamounts, providing valuable insights into our planet’s geological history.
For more information on the 2022 E/V Nautilus expedition and the remarkable discoveries made, you can visit the official website. This expedition serves as a reminder of how much of Earth’s deep seafloor remains unexplored and the potential for exciting new discoveries that lie beneath the ocean’s surface. The world of fashion is constantly evolving, with new trends emerging every season. From bold colors to statement accessories, there is always something new to look forward to in the world of fashion. One trend that has been gaining popularity in recent years is sustainable fashion.
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