First country in the World: Japan extracted rare earth sediment from 6,000m deep in the Pacific Ocean

The deep-sea drilling vessel Chikyu, operated by the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology. (Image: X/@nexta_tv)

• Japan extracted rare earth sediment from 6,000m deep in the Pacific Ocean.
• Japan's energy tech breakthrough may cut reliance on foreign minerals.
• METI and JAMSTEC's Chikyu vessel mission near Minami Torishima.

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Japan has achieved a historic milestone in deep-sea resource exploration. A team of researchers successfully retrieved sediment containing rare earth elements from a depth of 6,000 metres. This is a record in underwater mineral collection. The samples could pave the way for new energy technologies and economic security, reducing Japan’s reliance on foreign suppliers of these critical minerals.

The Deep-Sea Retrieval Mission

Using the advanced drilling vessel Chikyu, scientists collected sediment near the remote Pacific island of Minami Torishima. The operation tested the feasibility of extracting rare earths from extreme ocean depths. The thin layers of sediment brought up will now be analysed to measure the concentration of rare earth elements.

A World-First Achievement

Officials say this breakthrough is a step toward self-reliance in critical minerals. Experts highlight that this is the first operational attempt to collect rare earth-bearing sediment from such extreme depths. The success demonstrates Japan’s cutting-edge maritime technology and ambition to lead in ocean-based mineral extraction.

Who Was Behind This World Achievement?

The project was led by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) in collaboration with the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC). Using the advanced deep-sea drilling vessel Chikyu, the team conducted the mission near Minami Torishima, a remote Pacific island.

Why Study on Rare Earths Matter?

Rare earth elements are essential for modern technology. They are used in electric vehicles, wind turbines, smartphones, military equipment and other high-tech devices. China currently dominates global production, making alternative sources a strategic priority for countries like Japan.

How Scientists Observed the Rare Earth Mud?

Researchers used specialized drilling equipment to extract sediment from 6,000 metres below sea level. The retrieved mud contains rare earth elements critical for modern technology, including electric vehicles, wind turbines, smartphones and defense systems. Other nations are also exploring deep-sea resources, but Japan’s achievement sets a new benchmark.