Key points
- The IOM science team boarded the research vessel Anuanua Moana in San Diego, USA, on 26 December 2024.
- The cruise focused on the Preservation Reference Zone and the first generation mining site within exploration block H22, part of IOM’s ISA polymetallic nodule contract area.
- The team deployed a box corer, multi-corer, and ROV and conducted a bathymetric survey to collect samples and data.
- The cruise concluded in Papeete, French Polynesia, at the end of January 2025, including a visit to the CRIOBE research station on Moorea.
CCZ (Pacific Ocean) On 26 December 2024, the Interoceanmetal Joint Organization science team boarded the research vessel Anuanua Moana in San Diego, USA. The exploration was carried out in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, in an area covered by the contract for exploration for polymetallic nodules signed between the International Seabed Authority (ISA) and the IOM. The main objective was to address gaps in knowledge about the Preservation Reference Zone (PRZ) and first generation mining site in the IOM exploration area located in exploration block H22. The PRZ is the area designated by the ISA regulations to preserve habitats and the marine environment during deep seabed mining. Exploration block H22 represents the most studied area within the IOM exploration area.
Multiple successful deployments of the box corer, multi-corer, and ROV, as well as bathymetric survey, have yielded a wide range of samples and data that will be processed and analyzed over the coming months. This research aims to advance our understanding of the unique environment in the Pacific Ocean. In addition, we expect to gain more information on our polymetallic nodule resources, which are critical for sustainable development and the implementation of low-emission technologies.
The IOM team concluded their cruise at the end of January 2025 in Papeete, French Polynesia. During our stay in French Polynesia, we visited the laboratories of the CRIOBE research station, located on the island of Moorea, where some of our biological samples collected during the cruise will be analyzed.
Special thanks to the amazing crew of the Anuanua Moana, as well as the Moana Minerals and Kiva Marine teams!
