You can read all the latest news and updates on the Cook Islands seabed minerals sector here.
Life is everywhere. It is found in rocks deep beneath the surface of the earth, in a lake buried under the ice in Antarctica, and even in ponds of liquid tar-asphalt. So, although the physical environment-in the 5,000 m deep ocean floor is challenging, numerous species of organisms call it home.
Read MoreWelcome to the latest in our science series, proudly brought to you by the Seabed Minerals Authority. Our goal is simple—to educate and empower readers by exploring the fundamental science behind deep ocean seabed minerals. Through these articles, we aim to unravel the mysteries of the deep sea and its rich resources, while showcasing the importance of sustainable and responsible exploration. Dive in with us as we journey to the ocean’s depths, discovering how each new finding brings us closer to better understanding our planet and safeguarding its future. Be sure to visit our website for more exciting science articles!
Read MoreExploring the Hidden Treasure: Cook Islands' Polymetallic Nodules
When you think of the Cook Islands, a few things might come to mind—relaxed holidays, vibrant tivaevae, and, less excitingly, the high price of fish. But ask a marine geologist, and they will tell you that the Cook Islands are famous for something much more significant: a massive deposit of polymetallic nodules.
Read MoreWhen you think of the deep ocean, you might imagine mysterious creatures, sunken ships, and lost treasures. However, the reality is a bit more surprising—and a lot more cluttered. Shoes, plastic bags, glass bottles, fishing gear, and even entire shipping containers can be found scattered across the ocean floor. One particularly eye-opening discovery was a beer bottle found in the Challenger Deep, the deepest part of the ocean, over 10,000 meters down [1].
Read MoreIn the Cook Islands, we are embarking on an exciting journey to explore our Exclusive Economic Zone1, delving into the depths in search of polymetallic nodules (or simply nodules) and other scientific discoveries. Our mission involves gathering data from a vast area of the ocean, our Marae Moana, and over the next few years we will talk about some of the exciting science and technology that make this voyage possible.
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