In 2024, the project was developed at two locations in the Republic of Cuba. The first Karpinsky Geological Class was opened at the University of Moa, and the second at the Institute of Geology and Palaeontology in Havana.
Republic of Cuba
2024
Year of opening
Moa and Havana
The University of Moa and the Institute of Geology and Paleontology
The Moa region is a global center for nickel and cobalt mining. The deposit formed due to volcanic processes and rock weathering. These metals are critically important for batteries, stainless steel, and the aerospace industry.
The nickel heart of Cuba
The world’s nickel mining center, formed by the weathering of volcanic rocks.
Cuban ores contain record‑high concentrations of cobalt — up to 1 % or more. Such concentrations are rare and are associated with unique conditions for the formation of deposits.
Cobalt rarity
Unique ores with a record‑high cobalt content — up to 1 % or more.
In the Havana area, mineral resources and hydrogeology are being studied, and the remains of ancient marine reptiles and mollusks are being found. A digital twin of the subsurface is being created to model geological processes. Construction materials are also extracted here.
Ancient seas and digital subsoil
Paleontology, hydrogeology, and the digital twin of the subsurface.
NICKEL CUBE: FROM MOA TO HAVANA
A unique combination of laterite weathering crusts with cobalt and ancient marine sediments.
The Havana Geological Institute is a place where Cuban scientists unravel the ancient mysteries of the planet. They read the rock record, search for treasures in the depths of the earth, and monitor volcanic activity, revealing secrets hidden for millions of years.
PORTAL TO THE EARTH’S CORE
Over the past 10 years, the institute’s specialists have conducted more than 50 expeditions in Cuba and the Caribbean region. Each trip yields new discoveries and data about the island’s geological structure.
EXPEDITIONS
50+
The institute’s laboratories have examined over 3,000 mineral samples. Each sample is a piece of the puzzle that helps scientists understand how the Earth’s interior formed.
SAMPLES
3 000+
Scientists have created a detailed map of seismic activity covering 750 km of coastline. From the coral reefs of the Caribbean Sea to deep‑sea faults — each finding brings us closer to understanding the mysteries of our planet.
THE COAST
750 км
HAVANA INSTITUTE OF GEOLOGY
They compile a detailed metallogenic map of the island at a scale of 1:500,000.
They use advanced Russian methods for precise 3D modeling of subsurface resources.
They obtain an accurate forecast of the deposits for the effective management of Cuba’s resources.
The Karpinsky Institute and Cuban geologists are creating a digital twin of the subsoil.
HOW OUR CLASSES ARE HELD AT THE KUBA
More than 100 students and professionals joined the project’s educational and scientific activities.
Dr. Antonio Núñez Fernández University (Moá)
Institute of Geology and Paleontology (Havana)
