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00:00When we think of mines, we tend to think of gold mines, silver mines, and coal mines.
00:05But there are many different types of them, including ones that extract rare and unusual resources,
00:10from precious gemstone mines to ocean floor mines.
00:13Join me for the Top 15 Most Unusual Mines in the World,
00:17starting with number 15, the Intrepid Potash Evaporation Pond.
00:21So the first entry on our list is, without a doubt, best viewed from above.
00:26Utah's potash evaporation ponds look like pastel colors in the middle of a barren desert,
00:31and because of the rocky and mountainous terrain, even if you were just 100 feet away,
00:35if you didn't know they were there, you could end up walking right by them.
00:39So what exactly is going on?
00:40Well, the Intrepid Potash, Inc. employs remarkable methods to harvest potassium chloride, or potash.
00:47Operating three potash mines in the U.S., these stand out in Moab, Utah,
00:52where their iconic electric blue evaporation ponds captivate onlookers.
00:56Deep beneath the earth's surface, miners tap into the Colorado River water to access potash,
01:01once buried some 3,900 feet below.
01:04The water acts as a solvent, dissolving the potash into a brine that's subsequently channeled into these chambers.
01:10From there, it ascends to the surface and pours into the vivid evaporation ponds,
01:14heralding this surreal transformation.
01:16To expedite the crystallization process, the ponds are imbued with a brilliant azure hue,
01:21amplifying solar absorption and hastening potash formation.
01:25Over the course of the next 300 days, the brine undergoes a metamorphosis,
01:29yielding between 700 and 1,000 tons of potash daily.
01:33Throughout this transmutation, the pond undergoes a kaleidoscopic evolution.
01:37Sometimes they shimmer in a unified cerulean glow, while others exhibit a spectrum of hues,
01:43turquoise, orange, yellow, and white, indicative of varying evaporation stages.
01:4814. Salina Turda
01:51With a storied legacy spanning over 2,000 years,
01:55Salina Turda in Romania is more of an amusement park than it is a mine.
02:00But it still is a mine, nonetheless.
02:02It's nestled in the heart of Transylvania.
02:04This sprawling underground marvel boasts impeccably preserved galleries and a visionary playground,
02:09making it the preeminent salt mine museum globally.
02:13Situated in Turda, this subterranean sanctuary unfurls like a modern-day Atlantis.
02:18The site's origins trace back to antiquity,
02:20where salt extraction first happened on the surface before expanding into subterranean realms.
02:25In its early days, laborers used rudimentary tools, pickaxes,
02:29hammers, and chisels, earning their keep in florins, ale, and loaves of bread.
02:34However, over time, the mine evolved, serving various purposes throughout history,
02:37from a vital salt repository to a refuge during World War II,
02:41and even a cheese warehouse in the post-war era.
02:44It is a veritable epicenter of tourism.
02:47It's revered by Business Insider as the pinnacle of underground beauty.
02:51This mine captivates with its aesthetic reminiscent of a scene from a sci-fi epic.
02:56Within the cavern is an array of attractions,
02:58an amphitheater where echoes of the past resonate,
03:01an underground lake navigable by paddle and rowboat,
03:04and a ferris wheel offering panoramic vistas of this subterranean wonderland.
03:09Venture deeper and you'll encounter spa chambers enveloped in natural aerosols,
03:13bowling alleys, miniature golf courses, and sporting arenas,
03:17offering a blend of leisure and adventure unparalleled anywhere else on Earth.
03:2313. The Psychedelic Salt Mines Salt mines, but in technicolor.
03:29Beneath the streets of Yekaterinburg, Russia,
03:31lies a hidden gem of unparalleled wonder, the psychedelic salt mines.
03:36This former salt mine, adorned with mesmerizing swirls and patterns,
03:40unveils a wonderland more than 650 feet below the city's surface.
03:44These formations, composed of mineral carnalite,
03:47weave rivers of color throughout the chambers,
03:49offering a glimpse into a bygone era when a vast sea receded,
03:53leaving behind its mineral legacy.
03:55In 2014, explorer and photographer Mikhail Mishinek stumbled upon this hidden marvel,
04:01embarking on an odyssey through its dimly lit corridors.
04:03Although these mines now lie largely abandoned,
04:06their allure remains irresistible, beckoning curious souls to venture deeper.
04:11Yet access, of course, is restricted, requiring a coveted government permit to traverse the realm.
04:17While the pulsating beats and neon lights of Moscow may dazzle on a Saturday night,
04:22the psychedelic salt mines here offer an unparalleled spectacle,
04:25one that transcends the confines of time.
04:28Though closed to the public, the allure of this hidden treasure persists,
04:32inviting adventurers to seek out its secrets,
04:34perhaps with the aid of a special permit and a handful of flashlights.
04:38However, amid the natural wonders that abound here,
04:40one finds solace in the understanding that the true magic
04:43lies in the untamed beauty of the earth itself.
04:4712. Berchtesgaden Salt Mine
04:50Underneath the German town of Berchtesgaden,
04:52amid the majestic Bavarian Alps,
04:55lies a testament to the region's rich history, the salt mine.
04:58For centuries, the mine served as the lifeblood of the town's economy,
05:02fueling its prosperity and shaping its identity.
05:05Today, in homage to this storied legacy, the salt mine welcomes visitors from far and wide,
05:10offering an array of thrilling experiences that replace
05:13the toil of traditional mining with excitement and adventure.
05:17Salt mining has been a cornerstone of Berchtesgaden since the 1100s,
05:21as evidenced by the ancient documents chronicling the industry's early days.
05:25However, it wasn't until the 1500s that the mine as we know it took shape,
05:29evolving into a thriving state enterprise by the mid-1800s.
05:32Today, the salt mine stands as a beacon of heritage and pride,
05:36welcoming visitors with open arms.
05:38Upon arrival, guests are outfitted in authentic mining coveralls
05:41before embarking on a journey into the heart of the earth aboard a quaint miniature train.
05:46For those seeking a more exhilarating descent,
05:48two wooden slides offer an unconventional mode of transport to the lower levels.
05:53Here, amidst the serene waters of a mirrored lake,
05:56visitors are treated to a modern spectacle,
05:58a dazzling light and sound show that transforms the underground expanse
06:02into a realm of enchantment.
06:0511. THE SUPER PIT
06:08The famous open pit, affectionately dubbed the Super Pit,
06:12stands as an emblem of Australia's mining prowess.
06:15It's located in Western Australia off the Goldfields Highway.
06:18This colossal open pit mine held the title of Australia's largest gold mine until 2016,
06:24when the Newmont-Boddington gold mine claimed that mantle.
06:27Stretching approximately 3.5 kilometers in length, 1.5 kilometers in width,
06:31and going over 600 meters into the earth,
06:33this super pit commands awe with its sheer scale.
06:37Now, the open pit has an impressive production record,
06:39yielding 14.2 tons of gold in 2019.
06:42With a workforce of around 1,100 employees and contractors directly engaged on site,
06:47this mine stands as a cornerstone of the local economy.
06:50The origins of the super pit trace back to a series of underground mines,
06:54including the Paringa Arroya, Brownhill, Chaffers, and the Hynald Mines.
06:59While previous attempts to consolidate these operations into a single open pit mine faltered,
07:04the Femiston Open Pit finally emerged in 1989
07:07under the stewardship of the Kigourlie Consolidated Gold Mines.
07:10Geologically, the gold mine within the Femiston Open Pit is primarily found within
07:14ore loads formed by ancient shears in the Golden Mile dolerite rock unit.
07:19Despite this moniker, the Golden Mile encompasses an area over 2 kilometers in length
07:24and about a kilometer in depth,
07:26owing to the concentration of rich mines in the region.
07:29Mining operations here rely on conventional drill and blast techniques,
07:32with face shovels and dump trucks moving approximately 15 million tons of rock annually,
07:37predominantly waste rock.
07:39Notably, the gold within the Golden Mile load system is unique,
07:43occurring as telluride minerals within pyrite.
07:46To recover the gold, the ore undergoes a series of processes,
07:49including crushing, gravity circuit separation, flotation, and cyanidation.
07:5410. NIMACON SALT MINE
07:57The salt mine at Nimacon in Colombia presents a mesmerizing spectacle with its illuminated walls
08:03casting vibrant hues across the brine pools,
08:05creating a stunning rainbow effect that lures adventurers deeper into its tunnels.
08:10Ranked as the second-largest salt mine in Colombia,
08:13Nimacon's underground chambers serve as a museum,
08:15offering insights into the region's rich salt mining heritage.
08:19Visitors are treated to a diverse array of exhibits
08:21showcasing the area's lucrative history of salt extraction,
08:25including a remarkable underground church,
08:27where weekly masses are held amidst the walls constructed entirely of salt.
08:31For nearly 150 years, from 1819 to 1968,
08:35generations of workers toiled within these tunnels,
08:38extracting an estimated 8 million tons of salt.
08:40Yet, the history of salt mining in Nimacon predates even this extensive period of activity.
08:45Archaeological findings date back to the 4th century BCE.
08:48They reveal an early salt extraction in the region,
08:51suggesting that Nimacon has been a center of salt production for millennia.
08:55The Musica people, also known as the Salt People,
08:58played a significant role in elevating Nimacon's salt industry to prominence.
09:02Cut to today, though, and one can imagine that something of the Nimacon salt mine's caliber
09:07is open for tourism.
09:08Tickets are cheap, though, and the mine now offers guided tours
09:11to show curious salt lovers what life was like long ago,
09:15and how valuable a commodity salt was to the world.
09:199. The Sala Silver Mine Hotel Suite
09:23Stepping into this hotel suite is akin to descending into the depths of the Mines of Moria,
09:28albeit minus any encounters with Balrogs.
09:31Situated about 500 feet below ground,
09:33this relatively compact room bears witness to the painstaking efforts of miners
09:38who spent a decade carving it out using a labor-intensive fire-setting method.
09:42Little did they anticipate that one day,
09:45people would willingly descend into the mine shaft to spend a night in its depths.
09:49It's located in the Swedish town of Sala,
09:51home to the country's largest and most significant silver mine for centuries.
09:55Once teeming with precious ore,
09:57the mine eventually exhausted its resources by the 20th century,
10:01leaving behind a labyrinth of deserted tunnels and excavated chambers.
10:05Mining activities in Sala date back to the 16th century,
10:08with the region's bedrock known for its silver-rich veins.
10:11Over four centuries, the mine expanded to a depth of almost 1,000 feet,
10:15having over 12.5 miles of tunnels.
10:18Its closure in 1908 marked the end of an era,
10:20yet the mine's legacy lives on as a popular tourist attraction,
10:24offering guided tours, concerts,
10:26and an unexpected luxury hotel room deep in the underground.
10:30It was closed for renovations throughout 2020.
10:32The suite awaits its next chapter,
10:35promising visitors an unparalleled experience.
10:37Furnished with a double bed, silver accents, and even champagne,
10:41the room maintains a cozy temperature of 64 degrees Fahrenheit,
10:45a stark contrast to the chilly 35 of the surrounding tunnels.
10:49However, in this secluded underground oasis,
10:51modern amenities like cell phone service are non-existent.
10:54Instead, guests rely on an intercom system to communicate with an on-call staff,
10:58ensuring a seamless and unforgettable stay beneath the Earth's surface.
11:038. The Wilo Opal Mine
11:06The legacy of opals in Ethiopia stretches back millennia,
11:10with archaeological evidence dating their use in toolmaking as far back as 4000 BC.
11:16However, it wasn't until 1994 that gem-quality opals from the region garnered attention,
11:22with the discovery of precious opal in the Menskish district of North Shewa Province.
11:26Despite its dark brown color and tendency to crack,
11:29this opal marked the beginning of Ethiopia's journey into the gem trade.
11:33A significant turning point came in 2008,
11:36when a new deposit was unearthed in Ethiopia's Wallo Province near Wengeltana,
11:40giving rise to what is now known as Wilo Opal.
11:43Distinguished by its light background and vibrant play of color
11:46reminiscent of opals found in Australia and Brazil,
11:50Wilo Opal gained prominence in the global gem market,
11:53supplanting its predecessors.
11:54Ethiopia's opal-rich regions have long been strategic nodes
11:58of ancient trade routes facilitating the exchange of goods and ideas across continents.
12:03Opals, with their mesmerizing beauty and symbolic significance,
12:06played a crucial role in this cultural exchange.
12:09It's believed that Ethiopian opals may have traveled along these routes
12:12to ancient civilizations in Egypt, Rome, and beyond, enriching diverse cultures.
12:17In the modern era, Wilo Opal has emerged as a coveted gemstone,
12:21captivating jewelry designers and collectors alike.
12:24Wilo Opal continues to shape the contemporary gem trade landscape,
12:28highlighting Ethiopia's growing significance as a key player in opal production.
12:33Moving on to Number 7.
12:35Cavamuseo
12:37The history of marble quarries, particularly those in Carrara, Italy,
12:41is steeped in ancient tradition and remarkable innovation.
12:44Dating back to Roman times around 155 BCE,
12:48the excavation of marble deposits in this region has been integral to the creation
12:52of some of the world's most iconic monuments and artworks.
12:55From the majestic Pantheon to the imposing Pyramid of Cestius,
12:59Carrara's white marble has left an indelible mark on the architectural landscape of ancient Rome.
13:05This material continued to be celebrated throughout the centuries, adorning important
13:09Christian buildings such as the Baptistery of Florence and the Cathedral of Santa Maria del
13:13Fiore. Over the millennia, the extraction techniques employed at the marble quarry
13:18evolved significantly. From the rudimentary methods of the Roman era to the introduction
13:23of explosive mining in the 16th century, the industry witnessed continuous advancements.
13:27However, the use of explosives gave way to more efficient methods, such as the helical wire and
13:33later the diamond wire, which minimized waste and environmental impact. Historically, the transport
13:38of marble blocks from the quarry was facilitated by the dramatic lizzatura technique, a testament
13:44to the physical strength and skill of the quarrymen. This method, which involved maneuvering
13:48blocks along high-altitude paths using wooden beams and lubricated ropes, has since been replaced by
13:55modern transportation systems, using vehicles and railways. Today, the Carrara quarry stands as a
14:00testament to both ancient craftsmanship and modern innovation. The on-site museum offers a deeper
14:05understanding of marble excavation techniques, and it showcases stunning sculptures crafted
14:10from the very marble that graces the surrounding mountains.
14:146. The Cadia Ridgeway Mine The Cadia Mine, situated in the Valley of
14:19New South Wales, Australia, is a testament to human ingenuity. Nestled about 20 kilometers south of
14:25the bustling regional city of Orange, Cadia Mine stands as a monumental complex of both underground
14:30and open-cut gold and copper mines, shaping the landscape with its scale and prowess.
14:35Developed over the course of the 1990s, Cadia Mine has evolved into a cornerstone of the region's
14:40economy. The heart of the mine pulsates with activity as large mineral deposits are unearthed.
14:46The Ridgeway Underground Mine and the Cadia East Underground Mine, alongside the Cadia Open-Cut
14:51Mine, form a network of tunnels and excavations, each revealing the rich bounty hidden beneath.
14:57Water and power supply are critical considerations in the operation of such a colossal mine.
15:03In 2007, faced with the challenges of a prolonged drought, the Cadia Mine sought to secure water
15:08resources from Orange City Council, demonstrating its commitment to responsible resource management.
15:14Automation has also revolutionized operations here with the implementation of cutting-edge
15:18technologies, such as the Sandvik AutoMine and Transmin RockLogic for autonomous underground
15:23systems. These innovations enhance efficiency and safety, allowing for seamless extraction.
15:29Union involvement underscores the importance of labor relations here at this mine with employees
15:34represented by the Australian Workers' Union under the Cadia Valley Operations Enterprise
15:38Agreement. Despite its formidable presence, the Cadia Mine is not immune to challenges.
15:43Earthquake interruptions and groundwater issues have posed temporary setbacks,
15:48requiring swift and decisive action to mitigate any risks. However, such challenges serve as an
15:53example to the resilience and adaptability of this mine and its dedicated workforce.
15:59Number 5. The Diavik Diamond Mine
16:02The Diavik Diamond Mine, nestled in the North Slave Region of the Northwest Territories,
16:06Canada, is a monumental testament to human endeavor and geological wonder.
16:11Located approximately 300 kilometers northeast of Yellowknife, this complex spans a vast area,
16:16encompassing four kimberlite pipes. The mine's island location, covering an area of about 20
16:21square kilometers in Les Degras, aptly named East Island, adds to its remote and rugged charm.
16:27The scale of the Diavik Diamond Mine is truly awe-inspiring. In aerial images captured in 2015,
16:33the mine's two main open pits dominate the landscape, juxtaposed against a backdrop of
16:38icy tundra and vast expanses of wilderness. An airstrip capable of accommodating Boeing 737
16:45and C-130 Hercules aircraft serves as a lifeline, connecting the mine to the outside world.
16:50The mine has become a cornerstone of the regional economy since the commencement of commercial
16:55production in 2003. The diamond mine has emerged as a major employer, supporting about 1,000 jobs
17:01and producing an impressive 7 million carats of diamonds annually. The history of the Diavik
17:06Diamond Mine is one of perseverance. Surveyed in 1992 and constructed in 2001, the mine's journey
17:12from conception to operation represents a triumph of human endeavor. In 2006, logistical hurdles
17:19posed by the late freezing and early thawing of the ice road necessitated innovative solutions,
17:24showcasing the resilience of the mine's workforce. Subsequent developments, including the transition
17:28to underground mining in 2010 and the construction of a groundbreaking wind farm in 2012,
17:34underscore their commitment to sustainability. The significance of this mine transcends its
17:39economic impact, extending to remarkable discoveries that have captivated the world's
17:43imagination. In December 2015, the discovery of the 187.7-carat Diavik Foxfire Diamond,
17:50one of the largest rough gem-quality diamonds ever produced in Canada,
17:54captured headlines and garnered attention. Indigenous communities bestowed upon this
17:59extraordinary find an indigenous name, Noi-Ikwe, meaning Caribou Crossing Stone,
18:05honoring the deep connection between the land and its people. Similarly, the discovery of a colossal
18:10552-carat yellow diamond in October of 2018, the largest ever found in North America, further
18:17cemented the Diavik Diamond Mine's place in the annals of mining history.
18:224. THE MARBLE CAVES OF CHILECHICO The Marble Chapel, a breathtaking natural
18:28wonder nestled along the western shore of Lake General Carrera in Chile's Asan region.
18:33Situated about 220 kilometers south of Cojique, the regional capital, the Marble Chapel's allure
18:39lies in its unique formations, including caverns, islets, and coastal scarps, all sculpted by the
18:45gentle erosive action of the lake's waters. The history of the Marble Chapel dates back to the
18:49late 19th century and early 20th century, a period marked by exploration and discovery.
18:55The term Capilla de Marmol, or Marble Chapel, is believed to have been coined during this time,
19:00possibly by an Italian-Argentinian explorer. Over the decades, other names, such as Marble
19:05Cathedral, emerged, each contributing to the rich tapestry of nomenclature associated with these
19:10marvels. And as Chile's southern highway gained prominence as a tourist route in the 1990s,
19:15the Marble Chapel's popularity soared. In 1994, recognizing its significance, the Chilean
19:21government declared the Marble Chapel a national monument, granting it the prestigious status of
19:26Sanctuary of Nature. The formation of the caves, a relatively recent phenomenon in geological time,
19:32happened around 15,000 years ago, following the end of the last glacial period. As the glaciers
19:38retreated, the erosive forces of General Lake Carrera began their work, dissolving the rocks
19:43and sculpting the dramatic cliffs. What sets the Marble Chapel apart, though, is not only its
19:47geological grandeur, but also the purity of its water, which lent to the surrounding landscape
19:52a mesmerizing sky-blue hue. This pristine environment, reflected in the glistening
19:58white stones of the chapel's ceilings and walls, creates a serene and otherworldly atmosphere
20:03that leaves an indelible impression on all who visit.
20:073. THE CATHEDRAL OF SALT The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá,
20:13some 200 meters underground within a halite mountain near the Colombian city of Zipaquirá,
20:19emerges as a marvel of architecture, faith, and natural wonder. Serving as both a tourist
20:24attraction and a place of pilgrimage, this underground Roman Catholic church captivates
20:29visitors. Constructed within the tunnels of a salt mine, it is composed of sections symbolizing
20:34the birth, life, and death of Jesus. Every icon, ornament, and architectural detail is meticulously
20:41hand-carved from the halite rock. It is regarded as one of the foremost achievements of Colombian
20:46architecture. This cathedral has earned accolades as a jewel of modern architecture.
20:51Despite its subterranean location, this cathedral functions as a fully operational church,
20:56welcoming up to 3,000 people on Sundays. However, lacking a bishop, it doesn't hold
21:01official status as a cathedral in Catholicism. The origins of this cathedral trace back over
21:06200 million years, with salt deposits formed beneath the earth's surface,
21:10eventually rising above sea level during the Late Tertiary Period. Located approximately 49 kilometers
21:16north of Bogotá, at an altitude of over 2,600 meters, it is easily accessible via National
21:22Highway 45A and the Trent-Roscillo de la Sabana. This cathedral's history is intertwined with the
21:27region's rich mining heritage, dating back to the pre-Colombian era, where the musica culture
21:32exploited salt mines as early as the 5th century BCE. Alexander von Humboldt's observations during
21:37his visit here in 1801 shed light on extensive salt deposits, laying the groundwork for future
21:43exploitation techniques. The original cathedral, carved by miners as a sanctuary for their daily
21:48prayers, gave way to the Grand Salt Cathedral, inaugurated in 1954. However, structural concerns
21:55led to its closure in 1992, prompting the construction of a new cathedral deeper underground.
22:00Beyond the cathedral's sacred confines lies the expansive Salt Park, encompassing a museum
22:05dedicated to mining, mineralogy, and geology. The park offers a glimpse into the salt extraction
22:11process along with educational exhibitions, promoting environmental stewardship and
22:15sustainable development. 2. The Kimberley Mine
22:20In the heart of South Africa lies the Kimberley Mine, a remarkable testament to human determination
22:26and the pursuit of wealth buried deep in the earth. Known as the Temkuli Mine, or Grootgat,
22:31it boasts the title of being the deepest hole excavated by hand, although its claim is contested.
22:37The Kimberley Mine's story began in 1871 when diamonds were first discovered here, igniting a
22:42frenzy of activity that transformed the landscape into New Rush, and later renamed Kimberley. Over
22:48the following decades, an estimated 50,000 miners descended upon the site, wielding picks and shovels
22:54to extract diamonds from the earth. The result of their labor was the creation of the Big Hole.
23:00By 1914, when mining operations ceased, over 22 million tons of rock had been excavated,
23:05yielding an astonishing 3,000 kilograms of diamonds. The Big Hole's surface area is
23:11approximately 17 hectares and had a perimeter of about 1.6 kilometers, making it one of the largest
23:16hand-dug excavations on earth. Despite the challenges faced by miners, this mine remains
23:21a symbol of resilience. Today, efforts are underway to preserve its heritage and transform
23:26it into a lasting legacy for future generations. Initiatives such as the ongoing endeavor to
23:31register the Big Hole as a World Heritage Site highlight its cultural importance.
23:35The mine's impact on the local community was profound, with housing provided for miners by
23:40mining managers to improve security and limit the theft of diamonds. However, these locations
23:45lacked natural water resources and proper waste disposal, highlighting the harsh conditions
23:50faced by workers. Healthcare in the region was also a concern between 1897 and 1899,
23:56primarily due to diseases and injuries related to mining activities. Mine accidents, including
24:02rockfalls and explosions, were a common occurrence, further endangering the lives of miners.
24:07Today, visitors can explore its depths and learn about its storied past.
24:121. THE NAICA MINE
24:14Deep beneath the Sierra de Naica mountain in Chihuahua, Mexico, lies a hidden marvel of
24:19nature known as the Giant Crystal Cave. Buried 980 feet below the surface, this cavern is home
24:26to some of the most spectacular gypsum crystals ever discovered. Around 26 million years ago,
24:32magma pushed its way upward through fault lines beneath southeastern Chihuahua,
24:36creating the mountain near the town of Naica. As the magma cooled, it released hot mineral-rich
24:41waters into the caverns and gaps in the mountain's limestone. Over time, these waters became saturated
24:47with dissolved minerals, including anhydrite, a precursor to gypsum. The key to formation of these
24:53giant crystals lies in its stable high temperatures of the water within the cave, which remained at
24:58136 degrees Fahrenheit. At this temperature, anhydrite remained stable, but as the water
25:03temperature dipped slightly below that threshold, the mineral began to break down and reform as
25:08gypsum, specifically a type of gypsum known as selenite. While individual crystals may have
25:13taken up to 500,000 to 900,000 years to reach a diameter of just about 3.2 feet, many grew to
25:20breathtaking sizes, with some reaching lengths of 13 to 19 feet and the largest measuring up to 36
25:27feet in length and 3.2 feet in thickness. The discovery of the giant crystal cave in the year
25:322000 by miners from the Peñoles Mining Company was a momentous event in the world of science.
25:38However, the extreme conditions within the cave and the temperatures up to 113 degrees Fahrenheit
25:44and humidity levels close to 100% posed significant challenges to its exploration.
25:49Visitors risked condensation in their lungs, which could be fatal, and early expeditions
25:54were limited to just 10 minutes. Despite these challenges, though, teams of scientists equipped
25:58with specially designed cooling suits and respirators were able to explore the cave and
26:02make groundbreaking discoveries. In 2008 and 2009, NASA Astrobiology Institute director Penelope
26:08Boston led expeditions into the cave and discovered microbial lifeforms trapped inside the crystals,
26:15offering tantalizing clues about the potential for life in extreme environments. However,
26:20the removal of water from the cave, which began in 2000, may have compromised the structural
26:25integrity of the crystals. In 2017, the pumping of water has halted, allowing groundwater to
26:30refill the cave. Scientists are now monitoring these crystals closely to determine whether
26:35they will continue to grow in their natural habitat. Thanks for watching everyone, see you next time.