Cornell University drills down to 68% of target depth for geothermal research well
CUBO mud logger, Juliette Torres (CALS '23) takes samples from the drill site on July 7, 2022.
The Earth Source Heat project under Cornell University is nearing the completion of the third section of the Cornell University Borehole Observatory (CUBO), after which drilling will proceed to the well target.
We had previously reported on the start of drilling of the Cornell University Borehole Observatory (CUBO) which will be used to collect data for the assessment of implementing a large-scale geothermal heating project for the Ithaca campus. Relating to this, updates on the Earth Source Heat (ESH) project are now being updated via the official project site.
As of the latest update dated on 12 July 2022, the team has drilled to a total depth of 6,826 feet or 68% of the target depth of 10,000 feet. This corresponds to the 12-1/4″ well section which is planned to a depth of 7,900 feet. After casing and cementing this section, drilling will proceed to the target section for CUBO.
Drill cuttings continue to be collected, allowing for the identification of the geological formation at this depth as the Utica Shale. There has been no seismic activity reported beyond the typical levels observed in the area. There have also been no effects on water quality based on the water monitoring system.
Source: Earth Source Heat