Kola: The World’s Deepest Hole
Summary
Hosts Josh and Chuck explore the Kola Superdeep Borehole, the USSR’s Cold War-era project to drill deeper into Earth than any other human endeavor. They discuss the technical hurdles, such as extreme heat and shifting rock, that halted progress at 7.6 miles, and debunk the urban legend that the Soviets heard screams from hell. The episode highlights scientific discoveries, including ancient fossils and deep underground water, while contrasting Soviet achievements with earlier American attempts.
Topics discussed
Intro, ads, and Simpsons banter
Project Mohole and the race to drill deep
The Kola Superdeep Borehole: Depth and scale
Earth's layers and why we dig holes
Drilling challenges: Rock density and heat
Scientific discoveries: Water and ancient life
Conrad discontinuity and other deep holes
German borehole and the 'sounds of hell'
Listener mail and outro
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