Geology of the Open Cut
Like pages in a book, the rock layers in the Open Cut tell a story about the geologic history and dynamic processes that shaped the Northern Black Hills and paved the way for underground science.
Curriculum module media
Using the spectacular geology visible in the Open Cut as a backdrop, students will model mountain building and rock folding as it pertains to the geology of the Northern Black Hills. They will also be challenged to categorize and identify a variety of local rock samples—maybe even discovering gold ore!
Why conduct cutting-edge science in a former gold mine?
This location provides significant depth and rock stability—a near-perfect environment for experiments that need to escape the constant bombardment of cosmic radiation, which can interfere with the detection of rare physics events.
* Whenever possible, this experience takes place at the Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center