The Lost City Hydrothermal Field

The Lost City Hydrothermal Field is an underwater site located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, about 15,000 feet deep in the Atlantic Ocean. It was discovered in 2000 and is known for its unique geothermal springs that release heated, mineral-rich water. Unlike typical hydrothermal vents, which are powered by volcanic activity, the Lost City is driven by chemical reactions between seawater and rocks, creating alkaline fluids. This environment supports diverse ecosystems, including unusual organisms that thrive in extreme conditions. The site provides insights into early Earth processes and the potential for life in similar extraterrestrial environments.