State of the Planet

News from the Columbia Climate School

South China Sea Tectonics

  • The Story at the Bottom of the South China Sea

    The Story at the Bottom of the South China Sea

    We have drilled 2,600 feet below the sea floor and in another 500 feet, will reach the crystalline igneous basalt of the ocean crust. Though finding the age of the basalt is our main aim, the thick sediments that overly the crust also have a story to tell.

  • Drilling Deep into the South China Sea’s Past

    Drilling Deep into the South China Sea’s Past

    The J.R. has set sail from Hong Kong. Trevor Williams explains what his research team hopes to accomplish.

Blue banner with kids and Earth photos. Text: "Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory Open House, Saturday, October 17, 2026, 10am-4pm.

On Saturday, October 17, 2026 from 10am to 4pm, Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory Open House—our biggest, best science fun and discovery event of the year—will take place on our beautiful campus in Palisades, NY. Mark your calendar and join us for this free, family-friendly celebration of science! RSVP Today!

  • The Story at the Bottom of the South China Sea

    The Story at the Bottom of the South China Sea

    We have drilled 2,600 feet below the sea floor and in another 500 feet, will reach the crystalline igneous basalt of the ocean crust. Though finding the age of the basalt is our main aim, the thick sediments that overly the crust also have a story to tell.

  • Drilling Deep into the South China Sea’s Past

    Drilling Deep into the South China Sea’s Past

    The J.R. has set sail from Hong Kong. Trevor Williams explains what his research team hopes to accomplish.