Researchers Find New Chimney at Hafa Adai Vent Field
A new hydrothermal structure is growing at the site of a previously collapsed chimney in the Pacific Ocean.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Geology
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Scientists observed a new hydrothermal chimney emerging at the Hafa Adai vent field following the discovery of a collapsed structure during a 2025 expedition. The finding occurred as part of an investigation near the Mariana Islands.
Why it matters
Understanding the lifecycle of hydrothermal chimneys helps researchers track how tectonic plate convergence drives volcanic activity and mineral deposits on the seafloor. These vents are fueled by seawater seeping into crust cracks and heating near magma.
The NA171 expedition used remotely operated vehicles across 115 hours of underwater exploration. Vent fluids at the site reached peak temperatures of 350 degrees Celsius, while some chimneys reached heights of 35 metres.
The players
Mattingan: Mariana Arc Volcanic Exploration
This scientific expedition, designated NA171, focused on mapping and sampling volcanic environments near the Mariana Islands.
The details
The research team conducted nine remotely operated vehicle dives to investigate the Hafa Adai site, as well as the Ahyi and Daikoku seamounts. Hot fluids rising from the ocean crust deposit minerals as they encounter the cold surrounding seawater, which facilitates the growth of these structures.
Timeline
The Hafa Adai vent field was originally documented in 2016.
The NA171 research expedition took place from May 7 to May 28, 2025.
The Big Picture
This discovery extends the observational data gathered by the Mattingan: Mariana Arc Volcanic Exploration (NA171) regarding seafloor vent life cycles.
Understanding the formation of these vents provides critical insights into ocean chemistry and mineral distribution. This data aids scientists in mapping how geologic activity on the ocean floor impacts broader maritime environments.
The takeaway
Hydrothermal chimneys are highly dynamic features that can collapse and regenerate on relatively short geological timelines. Studying these shifts provides a clearer picture of how tectonic convergence shapes the Pacific seafloor.
Further reading
Learn more about ongoing undersea research by visiting the Geology section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Times of India.
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