Geochronologic data are integral to geologic mapping and are utilized by researchers, stakeholders, and the science-interested public to study the Earth’s lithosphere and landscapes and to manage resources and natural hazards. To address these questions, scientists at the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and State geological surveys have generated a significant amount of geochronologic data. We are developing, populating, and testing a new centralized database of USGS-generated geochronologic and thermochronologic data. These data span analytical techniques from Quaternary methods, such as optically stimulated luminescence, U-Th series, and cosmogenic nuclide dating, to long-lived isotopic systems, such as the U-Th-Pb, Sm-Nd, and 40Ar/39Ar methods, reflecting the diversity of USGS analytical labs and projects.
We are now compiling into a single database all published geochronologic data. Beginning with USGS data, we anticipate extending the scope to include similar data generated by our State geological survey partners. The database is supported by, and will be managed and served by, the Geologic Framework of the Intermountain West Project and the National Geologic Map Database, in accordance with the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 and its Reauthorizations.
The National Geologic Map Database (NGMDB)
From Outcrop to Ions: development and application of in-situ isotope ratio measurements to solve geologic problems
Argon Geochronology
Geologic Framework of the Intermountain West
- Overview
Geochronologic data are integral to geologic mapping and are utilized by researchers, stakeholders, and the science-interested public to study the Earth’s lithosphere and landscapes and to manage resources and natural hazards. To address these questions, scientists at the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and State geological surveys have generated a significant amount of geochronologic data. We are developing, populating, and testing a new centralized database of USGS-generated geochronologic and thermochronologic data. These data span analytical techniques from Quaternary methods, such as optically stimulated luminescence, U-Th series, and cosmogenic nuclide dating, to long-lived isotopic systems, such as the U-Th-Pb, Sm-Nd, and 40Ar/39Ar methods, reflecting the diversity of USGS analytical labs and projects.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain.Color cathodoluminescence (CL) image of zircons with 200 micrometer scalebar We are now compiling into a single database all published geochronologic data. Beginning with USGS data, we anticipate extending the scope to include similar data generated by our State geological survey partners. The database is supported by, and will be managed and served by, the Geologic Framework of the Intermountain West Project and the National Geologic Map Database, in accordance with the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 and its Reauthorizations.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain.Research Geologist Leah Morgan working in the USGS Argon Geochronology Laboratory in Denver
Sources/Usage: Public Domain.Geologist Harrison Gray calibrates portable OSL in the USGS Luminescence Dating Laboratory in Denver.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain.USGS Plasma Laboratory in Denver - Science
The National Geologic Map Database (NGMDB)
The National Geologic Map Database (NGMDB) is a distributed archive of geoscience information for the Nation. It was mandated by the Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 and is cooperatively built and maintained by the USGS and State Geological Surveys. We welcome you to explore the archive, view the maps, and help us to improve this resource.From Outcrop to Ions: development and application of in-situ isotope ratio measurements to solve geologic problems
Project objectives are to (1) develop innovative analytical techniques for isotope geochemistry and U-Pb geochronology using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), and (2) apply these techniques to collaborative research projects of high priority to the Mineral Resources Program, including studies related to the formation of "critical mineral" deposits, and...Argon Geochronology
This project supports the USGS argon geochronology laboratory in Denver. The USGS 40Ar/39Ar geochronology laboratory is a state-of-the-art research facility for determining absolute ages of minerals and rocks. The 40Ar/39Ar laboratory contributes critical geochronology to individual USGS research projects and to partners in academia and other Federal agencies. This laboratory develops methodology...Geologic Framework of the Intermountain West
The Geologic Framework of the Intermountain West project was launched with the goal of producing a new digital geologic map database and 3D geologic model of a transect from the Rio Grande rift to the Basin and Range, based on a synthesis of existing geologic maps with new targeted new mapping, subsurface data, and other data sets. This database will integrate disparate map data, resolve... - Data