USGS Yellowstone Volcano Observatory Scientist-in-Charge Mike Poland detailed how scientists first took samples from the boiling, colorful waters of Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park.
Trappers first described Grand Prismatic Spring in 1839, and while they obviously noticed the water’s vibrant colors, they had no idea what created them. Plenty of scientists have investigated the waters to discover its secrets, and now we know that microscopic organisms give the spring its colors.
One scientist of note was park geologist Rick Hutchinson, who designed a remarkably stable boat called the Little Dipper. Even if the bottom went out on the boat it would stay afloat, and he went out on the surface of the boiling lake with other park staff to measure the depth and collect water samples.
After going out a few times, these scientists captured a depth of over 100 feet. It’s unclear if that’s 100% true, as the line could have gotten a bit tangled, but it’s a nonetheless impressive feat.
