Into the Abyss

Far below the Pacific Ocean's surface-three to four miles down-lies the Hawaiʻi Abyssal Plain. This vast, flat stretch of seafloor is one of the least explored places on Earth. Scientists believe this deep ocean area may hold critical minerals-specifically, polymetallic nodules that contain metals like nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements that are essential for things like batteries, electronics, energy technology, defense systems and advanced manufacturing.

The abyssal plain is also home to unique deep-sea life and ecosystems. Understanding these environments is key to making smart decisions about whether and how to use ocean essential resources.

That's why the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) teamed up with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), NOAA, and research partners from the University of Hawaiʻi, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, and the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology for the USGS-led Hawaiʻi Abyssal Nodules and Associated Ecosystems Expedition. This mission explored the deep waters south of Hawaiʻi in fall 2025, building on earlier mapping campaigns.

During the expedition, scientists gathered data on water chemistry, sediment layers, and deep-sea biology. This information creates a baseline picture of the environment, something that has never been done in this part of the ocean before.

The team also used a tool called a "box corer" to collect samples of seafloor sediment. These samples help researchers understand sediment density, composition, and what kinds of organisms live there.

"Box core sampling allows us to investigate the connection between seafloor sediments and the creatures that depend on them," explains Jennifer Le, BOEM oceanographer and benthic biologist who helped collect these samples. "Data collected on these deep-sea ecosystems are critical to informing future decisions on potential mineral leasing and development in the Pacific."

But the expedition was about more than just science. A Native Hawaiian cultural liaison joined the team to share traditional knowledge and ensure research respected the cultural significance of Moananuiākea-the vast Pacific Ocean. This partnership reflects USGS's commitment to honoring Indigenous perspectives alongside scientific data.

Critical minerals are vital for modern technology, but the deep ocean is a delicate place. Decisions about future resource use must balance national security needs with environmental protection and cultural values. The data from this expedition will help BOEM do just that-using the best available science to guide responsible management of minerals on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf.

Exploring the abyss isn't just about finding minerals, it's about understanding ecosystems, respecting culture, and planning for the future. Coming together, federal agencies, scientists, and cultural experts are making sure decisions about ocean mineral resources are informed, sustainable, and responsible. Read more about BOEM's journey Into the Abyss.

Studies Across America

The study is featured in BOEM's new Studies Across America StoryMap, an interactive online narrative highlighting the bureau's research and environmental assessment efforts, which BOEM launched to help commemorate America's 250th birthday.

-- BOEM --

The Department of the Interior's Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) manages development of U.S. Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) energy, mineral, and geological resources in an environmentally and economically responsible way.