International researchers have begun extracting core samples from the Durupinar Formation in eastern Turkey, a 157-meter boat-shaped geological site widely debated as the resting place of Noah’s Ark. Led by the California-based research organization Noah’s Ark Scans, the expedition drilled to a depth of 18 meters to test long-standing rival theories over whether the structure is a natural rock formation or of human construction.
The 2026 Expedition and Subsurface Sampling at Mount Ararat
An international team of archaeologists, geologists, and soil scientists started pulling core samples from beneath the surface of the Durupinar Formation, located south of Mount Ararat. Founded by American researcher Andrew Jones, Noah’s Ark Scans organized the project to investigate the interior of the 157-meter structure. The site has drawn public and scientific attention ever since its outline was first identified in 1959. According to a statement released by Noah’s Ark Scans on September 23, 2026, the primary objective is to determine if the location consists of homogeneous natural rock or contains hidden internal structures.
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Decades of Scientific Debate Over Natural Versus Artificial Origins
The latest drilling builds on decades of conflicting academic conclusions regarding the Turkish landmark. In a 1996 study, geologist Lorence Collins and explorer David Fasold asserted that the Durupinar Formation was entirely a natural rock formation and dismissed claims of a buried biblical vessel as incorrect. Modern investigators are utilizing updated technology to reexamine those historical assertions. Jones noted that preliminary radar data did not point to simple, solid rock masses beneath the surface.
| Research Phase | Key Participants | Main Finding or Objective |
|---|---|---|
| 1996 Study | Lorence Collins and David Fasold | Concluded the site is an entirely natural rock formation. |
| 2026 Expedition | Noah’s Ark Scans, Dr. Khosrow Bakhtar, Cenker Atila | Extracted core samples from 18 meters deep to test internal structure. |
Advanced Radar Surverys and Underground Drone Footage
Field operations rely on specialized technology partnerships to peer beneath the ground. Noah’s Ark Scans collaborated with Bakhtar Research and Engineering LLC, with scientist Dr. Khosrow Bakhtar directing the radar surveys. Meanwhile, broader archaeological investigations at the site are led by Cenker Atila of Sivas Cumhuriyet University. The team deployed a high-resolution subsurface robot known as a Gopher drone to capture what organizers described as the first video footage from inside the formation, designed to reach areas inaccessible to humans.
Current Findings and Laboratory Analysis Timeline
Initial drilling results have yielded specific physical observations from deep underground, though formal confirmation remains pending. Jones stated that the team successfully retrieved material from nearly 18 meters down without encountering bedrock or solid limestone in the drill holes. Researchers emphasize that these preliminary field observations require comprehensive laboratory analysis before definitive conclusions can be drawn. A detailed report outlining the findings of the core samples is expected to be released in the coming weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Durupinar Formation located?
The geological formation is situated south of Mount Ararat in the eastern region of Turkey.
Who is leading the current research at the site?
The exploration is being conducted by Noah’s Ark Scans, founded by Andrew Jones, in cooperation with researchers including Dr. Khosrow Bakhtar and archaeologist Cenker Atila of Sivas Cumhuriyet University.
What did researchers find during the recent drilling?
The team extracted core samples from a depth of 18 meters and reported that no solid limestone or bedrock was initially identified in the drilled holes, though full lab results are still pending.
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