Images

Isolated sandstone specimen from the USGS mineral collection. High-definition image showing layered texture and earthy tones.

High-definition image of sandstone specimen with fine-grained texture and reddish hue.

Isolated quartz grain from silica sand. High-definition image showing rounded texture and translucent color.

Isolated silicon carbide specimen from the USGS mineral collection. High-definition image showing crystalline texture and dark coloration.

High-definition image of silicon metal specimen with shiny surface and granular structure.

 High-definition image of chromite specimen with visible crystal grains and dark coloration.

Isolated USGS mineral specimen of low-carbon ferrochromium. High-definition image showing smooth metallic surface.

Isolated high-resolution image of columbite-tantalite ore, a mineral specimen from the USGS collection, highlighting its granular texture and crystal structure.

Isolated mineral specimen featuring covellite and pyrite, captured in high resolution to emphasize the contrast between blue and gold metallic textures.

The new USGS Cooperative National Geologic Map web tool was designed to also be mobile friendly, allowing users to explore geologic data from smartphones and tablets, in addition to larger devices. USGS image.

The new USGS Cooperative National Geologic Map web tool was designed to be mobile friendly, allowing users to explore geologic data easily from their smartphones or tablets. USGS image. 

Animated gif showing different map layers of the USGS Cooperative National Geologic Map. USGS image. 

USGS scientists measure flooding on the Mendenhall River as water releases from Suicide Basin’s glacier-dammed lake on August 13, 2025. 

Floodwaters reach near the base of the I-35 bridge over Leon Creek, Texas on June 12, 2025. 

USGS water specialist Dwight Sparks is joined by feathered company while measuring floodwaters of the Navasota River from a bridge near Groesbeck, Texas on June 12, 2025.

USGS water expert Rogelio Hernandez measures floodwaters off of I-35 near Leon Creek in Texas on June 12, 2025, using specialized monitoring equipment to collect data critical for public safety. 

USGS water specialist Dwight Sparks measures floodwaters from County Road 402 bridge over the Navasota River near Groesbeck, Texas on June 12, 2025. 

The graphic shows the last 17 solar cycles and their related increased sunspot activity. A solar cycle is a roughly 11-year periodic change in the Sun characterized by variations in the number and intensity of sunspots, as well as a flipping of its magnetic poles.

Map of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and nearby areas of Northern Wisconsin, with areas of overflights shaded in yellow (Wisconsin) and green (Michigan).

America’s diverse ecosystems are an asset to current and future generations by supporting economically and recreationally important fish, wildlife, and lands. Healthy ecosystems support people and nature, fostering prosperity and enjoyment for all. 

Satellite data shows flooding extents before and after a 6-foot lake level rise in Lake Fuqua, Oklahoma, following flooding in May 2025.