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Deep-Sea Expedition to Test 'Dark Oxygen' Claims

1/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Researchers unveiled deep-sea landers to test the claim that metallic rocks on the ocean floor produce 'dark oxygen,' a finding that could challenge life-origin theories.
The claim has drawn skepticism from the deep-sea mining industry and some researchers.
British marine ecologist Andrew Sweetman, who led the research, plans an expedition to test nodules' oxygen generation.
The landers can reach 11 kilometers deep and include sensors to measure seafloor respiration.

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Story summary

Researchers unveiled deep-sea landers to test the claim that metallic rocks on the ocean floor produce 'dark oxygen,' a finding that could challenge life-origin theories.
The claim has drawn skepticism from the deep-sea mining industry and some researchers.
British marine ecologist Andrew Sweetman, who led the research, plans an expedition to test nodules' oxygen generation.
The landers can reach 11 kilometers deep and include sensors to measure seafloor respiration.