In a groundbreaking discovery scientists aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Healy have identified a massive underwater volcano-like formation deep beneath the Arctic Ocean near Alaska. This remarkable structure, sitting more than 1,600 meters below the ocean’s surface, was revealed during a seafloor mapping project aimed at improving navigation safety in the region.
The team aboard the Healy, which included researchers from the National Science Foundation, University of New Hampshire, and NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), detected a potential gas plume rising from the formation. While details are still emerging, the discovery sheds light on the largely unexplored underwater terrain of the Arctic, offering new avenues for scientific exploration.
Captain Meghan McGovern of NOAA emphasized the significance of the find:
“These findings are exciting and offer insight into what may exist beneath the ocean’s surface, much of which is unknown in this region.”
This discovery was made as part of the Alaskan Arctic Coast Port Access Route Study, a project designed to evaluate vessel routing measures and enhance maritime safety. With sparse soundings in the Arctic, mapping efforts like these are critical for ensuring ships avoid underwater hazards and potential collisions.
The Healy, the Coast Guard’s only icebreaker designed for research, played a crucial role in this mission. Departing from Seattle, Washington, in June 2024, the ship recently returned after months of Arctic deployment.
Captain Michele Schallip, Healy’s Commanding Officer, stated:
“It’s an honor supporting such diverse research missions in the northern high latitudes while enhancing navigation safety. Our crew is committed to meeting the challenges of operating in this austere environment to complete vital missions.”
Underwater volcanoes, also known as submarine volcanoes or seamounts, are less dramatic than their terrestrial counterparts but play a critical role in shaping the ocean floor. Scientists estimate there could be up to one million underwater volcanoes in the Pacific Ocean alone, vastly outnumbering those on land.
These hidden geological features contribute to the planet’s dynamic systems, from shaping underwater landscapes to influencing marine ecosystems.
As scientific interest in the Arctic grows, discoveries like this highlight the importance of continued research in the region. The underwater volcano not only enhances our understanding of the Earth’s geological processes but also underscores the need for advanced mapping and exploration technologies in remote areas.
This find marks another step forward in unveiling the mysteries of the Arctic Ocean, inspiring future scientific missions to uncover more about the hidden depths of our planet.