Underground Facility Access

Lore & Background

SURF is located in the former Homestake Gold Mine and encompasses 223 acres (90 ha) on the surface and 7,700 acres (3,100 ha) underground. The property was donated by Homestake's parent company, Barrick Gold, to the SDSTA for use as a dedicated research facility in 2006. Homestake carved out more than 370 miles (600 km) of underground shafts, drifts and ramps, and Sanford Lab currently maintains about 12 miles (19 km) for science activities. The main level for science is the 4850 Level, which can be accessed through the Yates and Ross shafts. At 1,490 meters (4,890 ft), SURF is the deepest underground laboratory in the U.S. For experiments on the 4850 Level, the average rock overburden is approximately 4,300 meters water equivalent (m.w.e.). This depth provides significant protection from cosmic radiation from the sun for sensitive particle physics experiments.

In Their Own Story

The heavy metal door groaned as the key slid into its ancient slot. Dust motes danced in the beam of light cutting through the darkness of the corridor. You stepped past the threshold, leaving the fresh air of the surface behind for the stale hum of machinery that had slept for centuries. A Palbox terminal flickered to life nearby, its screen casting a pale blue glow on your face as it recognized your presence. Somewhere deep below, a low growl echoed through the ventilation shafts—a warning that you were no longer alone in this forgotten place.

Reader's Guide

To unlock access to underground facilities, players must typically progress through the main storyline quests provided by key NPCs or discovered via exploration. This often involves retrieving specific Key Items found within dungeons or as rewards for completing objectives related to Pal research. Once the necessary item is obtained, players locate the sealed entrance on the world map, usually marked by distinct industrial architecture or environmental hazards preventing casual entry. Upon interaction with the lock mechanism using the key, the barrier opens, granting passage into the subterranean complex. Inside, players encounter new species of Pals and resources not available on the surface. Clearing these areas often advances the overarching narrative, unlocking further dialogue options and revealing lore fragments about the world's history.

Did You Know?

• SURF is the deepest underground laboratory in the United States, at 1,490 meters (4,890 ft).
• The facility is located in the former Homestake Gold Mine, which carved out more than 370 miles (600 km) of underground shafts, drifts and ramps.
• Sanford Lab currently maintains about 12 miles (19 km) of underground space for science activities.
• The main level for science is the 4850 Level, with an average rock overburden of approximately 4,300 meters water equivalent (m.w.e.).
• The property was donated by Homestake's parent company, Barrick Gold, to the SDSTA for use as a dedicated research facility in 2006.