USGS Releases New 3D Underground Geologic Map of the United States

U.S. Geological Survey. The underground map could help the electric grid avoid catastrophe, according to researchers involved in the project.

U.S. Geological Survey about the new map. The conversation explored how detailed knowledge of subsurface geology might strengthen infrastructure resilience against major disruptions.

The story was published on May 7, 2026, at 4:46 PM ET. It appeared on All Things Considered. Byline credits for the report include Fiona Geiran, Tyler Bartlam, Christopher Intagliata and Ailsa Chang.

NPR reported that audio from the segment would be available later in the day. The discussion between Chang and Bedrosian centered on the map's potential applications for energy systems.

U.S. NPR reported that the new underground map represents a significant advance in understanding the nation's geologic foundation. Such data could inform decisions on where and how to site critical power infrastructure to minimize risks from geomagnetic disturbances or other subsurface-related hazards.

U.S. Geological Survey has not released full technical details in the broadcast segment. Chang pressed for specifics on how the mapping improves upon prior models of crustal composition and structure. Paul Bedrosian outlined ways the information might be integrated into planning for the national electric grid.

The model incorporates seismic, magnetic and gravity data to create a three-dimensional picture extending many kilometers beneath the surface. NPR's coverage emphasized practical outcomes. Better mapping of deep structures could help utilities identify zones where induced currents from solar storms might concentrate, allowing targeted hardening of transformers and transmission lines.

The segment concluded with Bedrosian noting that the map fills longstanding gaps in continental-scale geophysical knowledge. This improved baseline, he suggested, offers a foundation for long-term infrastructure protection strategies.