A mysterious golden orb found 3,300 meters below ocean surface

NOAA found a golden, egg‑shaped object which was 3,300 meters deep off the coast of Alaska (Image: NOAA/ Seascape Alaska)

Scientists discovered a strange golden orb. It sits about 3,300 meters below. The site is off Alaska’s coast. The orb is roughly ten centimeters wide. A small hole appears on one side.

Remotely Operated Vehicle Examined Object

A NOAA ROV captured images of the orb. It gently touched it with manipulators. The object felt soft, not rigid. It rested alone on a sponge-covered rock. Researchers collected it for further study onboard.

Possible Biological Origins Under Investigation

Scientists speculate it might be an egg casing, coral or a dead sponge. It's unusual size challenges typical egg classifications. The hole could indicate life entry or exit. DNA tests are planned to identify origin.

Implications For Deep Ocean Research

The orb highlights how little is known. It could represent a new species entirely. Discoveries like this expand knowledge of deep-sea life. It may inform future exploration and sampling. Scientists stress continued monitoring of extreme ocean depths.

Why Object Puzzles Marine Experts?

Most large eggs appear in clusters, not alone. Its golden color and texture are unexpected. No similar deep-sea structures match it clearly. Finding solitary, soft orbs at depth is rare. The discovery emphasizes unexplored ocean biodiversity.

Future Research Will Provide Answers

Lab analysis will confirm whether it is biological. Genetic sequencing may reveal unknown deep-sea species. Further ROV surveys may locate similar objects. Understanding it could inform deep-sea life studies. The find highlights the ocean’s hidden mysteries.