Science Planning

The CSD Facility coordinates the development of long-range science plans through community engagement and prioritization.

For the most up to date information on the ongoing CSD Community Science Planning process, please visit our Community Science Planning website where you will find:

Recent CSD community publications
Community Vision Executive Summaries
Content generated during the 2024 Integration Summit
Information about recent and future CSD projects
Calendar of events and Working Group meetings

The science planning process is dynamic and ongoing. The CSD Facility is dedicated to facilitating community meetings, coordinating publications, and communicating community goals and priorities to funding agencies.

The research community identifies the compelling scientific questions in the coming decade requiring drilling or coring activities, and the infrastructure (drilling tooling, downhole survey equipment, lab instrumentation, cyberinfrastructure, etc.) required to meet the scientific goals. The science planning process prioritizes resource development by the CSD Facility, and gives funding agencies a roadmap for upcoming community scientific needs.

If you plan to core or drill on Earth's continents (including in lakebeds) in the next 10 years, regardless of the scope of your project, your ideas should be included in the science planning process, and your target sites should be defined. We encourage you to contact Facility staff to discuss your plans and join the annual working group discussions. Be sure your science is represented!