Norris Geyser Basin

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World’s tallest geyser erupts in Yellowstone

Steamboat Geyser erupts in Yellowstone National Park in 2005. The Norris Geyser Basin feature is the largest active geyser in the world, spewing water more than 300 feet into the air during full eruptions.

Steamboat Geyser, the tallest active geyser in the world, delighted visitors to Yellowstone National Park on Wednesday, spewing steam high into the air in a rare and powerful eruption that lasted several minutes and resulted in ongoing steam and rumbling that persisted until Thursday morning. Full eruptions of Steamboat are rare and unpredictable, and are prized by geyser gazers who wait to witness a rare column of super-heated water that can reach more than 300 feet. Eruptions can last only a few minutes, or as long as 40 minutes, with this week's outburst lasting a reported 15-20 minutes. Continue Reading →

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Unique Yellowstone microbe could hold clues for bioenergy, carbon capture

Researchers have used detailed genetic analyses to identify novel microbes found in the Norris Geyser Basin of Yellowstone National Park. (YNP photo)

Researchers are continuing to find new and unique properties in the thermal features of Yellowstone National Park, with a recent study suggesting that novel microbes found in the Norris Geyser Basin might someday help in unlocking more environmentally friendly forms of energy. Detailed and complex genetic analyses carried out by scientists from Montana State University and other laboratories have yielded what appears to be a new phylum of archaea — a new branch on the tree of life that could lead to new methods of carbon sequestration or producing biofuels. Continue Reading →

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