Federal ocean scientists have unveiled the first photographs of mineral-rich formations retrieved from the deep seafloor in waters surrounding American Samoa, marking a significant milestone in a comprehensive mapping initiative covering more than 30,000 square nautical miles of federal territory.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration published these inaugural images on April 17, 2026, showcasing dark, rounded formations believed to contain valuable minerals collected through specialized sampling equipment from the ocean bottom.
“NOAA’s mapping missions serve as a reminder that ocean exploration is a vital piece of our nation’s economic development,” said NOAA Administrator Neil Jacobs, Ph.D. “These images highlight the outstanding work of our NOAA team and partners to characterize the seafloor, and the data gathered during this historic project will enable science-based decision-making to support responsible development.”
The sampling effort stems from a Department of Commerce program implementing the U.S. Offshore Critical Minerals Mapping Plan, established through President Trump’s Executive Order 14285: Unleashing America’s Offshore Critical Minerals and Resources. Federal agencies working together identified the American Samoa region as a high-priority zone for studying these potentially valuable seafloor deposits.
“NOAA’s work to map and characterize these areas reflects the strength of interagency collaboration under President Trump’s Executive Order to unleash America’s offshore critical minerals,” said BOEM Acting Director Matt Giacona. “For BOEM, NOAA’s high-resolution mapping and characterization are essential inputs that will provide the foundational data needed to assess resource potential, inform leasing and environmental reviews, and reduce uncertainty as we evaluate future offshore mineral activities in a responsible, science-based manner.”
The ongoing research mission will continue posting seafloor photographs and sample images online as work progresses, providing early insights into mineral possibilities and deep-ocean environments in American Samoa’s federal waters. U.S. Geological Survey researchers will analyze the seafloor materials to better understand the deep seabed composition in this region and guide future exploration activities focused on deep-sea minerals.
“USGS is excited for the opportunity to study the composition of these unique mineral samples in U.S. waters within the Samoa Basin,” said Ned Mamula, director, USGS. “We will continue providing the actionable science our partner agencies need for decision-making.”
USGS officials plan to publish their preliminary analysis findings from this research early this summer.
The project involves collaboration between NOAA’s Office of Coast Survey, which leads the contract work, along with NOAA Ocean Exploration, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, and the U.S. Geological Survey providing scientific expertise and guidance.
Deep-sea mineral extraction involves harvesting nodules containing critical materials from ocean floors. Certain deep-sea regions hold abundant valuable resources including manganese, nickel, cobalt, copper and rare earth elements. These critical minerals are essential components in defense equipment, batteries, smartphones, and medical devices, playing increasingly important roles in American manufacturing. Access to these materials represents a crucial element in strengthening U.S. supply chain resilience.
