Discover the many fascinating mysteries of the ocean, from strange sounds to legendary underwater cities, that still spark speculation and in-depth research today.
The ocean, with its astonishing depths and vastness stretching out into the unseen, remains one of the greatest mysteries to mankind.
Many phenomena that occur in the ocean cannot yet be explained scientifically, triggering speculation ranging from myths to complex scientific theories. Here are 10 Ocean Mysteries that continue to fascinate and baffle researchers to this day.
1. Yonaguni Monument: Ancient Structure in the Sea of Japan
Off the east coast of Yonaguni Island, Japan, lies a mysterious underwater formation known as the Yonaguni Monument. This discovery was first made by diver Kihachiro Aratake in 1986. This structure is about 150 meters long and 50 meters wide, resembling terraces.
There is a theory that these structures are the work of humans from a lost ancient civilization. However, most scientists believe that the shape was formed naturally due to tectonic activity and erosion over thousands of years. To this day, the debate over the origins of the Yonaguni Monument continues.
2. The “Bloop” Sound That Shook the Ocean
In 1997, NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) captured a mysterious sound called “Bloop”. This sound has a low frequency and is so strong that it can be heard from thousands of kilometers away.
Initially, the sound was thought to be the work of an unknown giant sea creature. However, in 2011, NOAA stated that the “Bloop” was most likely caused by a large crack in an Antarctic glacier.
While this explanation is widely accepted, some still doubt that the phenomenon is caused solely by ice activity.
3. The Loss of Four Submarines in 1968
The year 1968 saw a major mystery in the ocean when four submarines from different countries disappeared at almost the same time. The ships were the USS Scorpion (United States), K-129 (Soviet Union), INS Dakar (Israel), and Minerve (France).
The disappearance of these ships has sparked various speculations, ranging from technical accidents to sabotage in the context of the Cold War. To this day, only the Minerve remains undiscovered, making it a major maritime mystery.
4. Circle Structure in the Baltic Sea
In 2011, the Ocean X research team discovered a large circular structure on the bottom of the Baltic Sea using sonar. The structure is about 60 meters in diameter and looks like a “flying saucer” from space.
Geologists believe that the structure is the result of glacier movement during the Ice Age. However, the team that discovered it reported mysterious disturbances, such as electrical equipment going dead when approaching the structure. Until now, this phenomenon is still a matter of debate.
5. Kraken: Sea Monster in Norse Mythology
The Kraken is one of the most famous myths of Norse culture, depicted as a giant sea creature resembling an octopus or squid. According to folklore, the Kraken is capable of sinking ships and attacking their crews.
The discovery of a giant squid (Architeuthis dux) measuring more than 10 meters long proves the existence of the large sea creature that inspired this legend. However, there is no concrete evidence to support the existence of the Kraken in the form depicted in the myth.
6. Mysterious Sounds from the Ocean
In addition to the “Bloop”, there are other strange sounds recorded in the ocean, such as the “Julia” and “Upsweep”. These sounds have unique characteristics and are often heard without a clear origin.
Most scientists believe that this sound comes from iceberg activity or tectonic phenomena. However, some sounds remain unexplained, giving rise to theories about large sea creatures or unknown natural phenomena.
7. Atlantis: The Legendary Lost City
The legend of Atlantis, a magnificent city that is said to have sunk beneath the sea, has been debated throughout history.
Some researchers claim to have found remains of Atlantis in various locations, including the Greek island of Delos, where building structures and pottery artifacts have been found.
However, to date, there is no definitive evidence to support the existence of Atlantis. This city remains a great mystery that continues to captivate the imagination of many.
8. Sea Monsters in Stronsay
In 1808, the carcass of a strange creature washed up on the shore of Stronsay, Scotland. This creature is about 11 meters long, with a shape that resembles ancient marine reptiles such as Plesiosaurus.
Scientists speculate that the carcass is a decomposing basking shark. However, its unusual size and shape remain a matter of debate, making it one of the unsolved mysteries of the ocean.
9. Anomaly in the Baltic Sea
In addition to the circular structures, the Baltic Sea is the location of various other strange phenomena. One of the suspicious discoveries was a shape that resembled a spaceship or secret war technology.
To date, scientists have not reached a consensus on the origin or function of these strange formations, fueling wild speculation ranging from natural formations to conspiracy theories.
10. Mysterious Sounds from the Deep Sea
The deep ocean is a place full of strange sounds that have yet to be scientifically explained. Sounds like the “Bloop,” “Julia,” and “Upsweep” are some of the most famous, providing insight into just how mysterious the underwater world is.
Some sounds have been explained as the result of natural activity, but many remain a mystery, reinforcing the ocean’s allure as one of the least understood regions on Earth.
The ocean is a place full of mysteries that offers stories about unsolved phenomena. From puzzling underwater structures to mysterious sounds, each phenomenon provides a glimpse into just how vast and complex the underwater ecosystem is.
These unexplained occurrences are part of the fascinating World of Mystery, captivating researchers and enthusiasts alike.
Exploration and research continue to uncover the secrets hidden in the depths of the ocean. Until then, these mysteries will continue to be a source of inspiration, curiosity, and debate for scientists and the general public around the world.