The Mojave Project

Late geologists Bennie Troxel and Lauren Wright's signature accomplishment was their mapping of the Amargosa Chaos in 1984. But perhaps what will resonate the most is the mentorship they've given to young geologists and how their imprint will carry on generations after.

The effects of nuclear testing have been devastating. What is more alarming is how the United States government has downplayed its effects and perpetrated a monstrous public health deception, especially to marginalized rural communities.

Jackrabbit Homesteading and California City are examples of two uniquely bizarre mid-century development patterns found in the Mojave Desert.

The Asi Huviav or Salt Song is a vast interconnected ritual song map describing the sacred geography of the Nuwuvi people (Southern Paiute).

Virtually pressed up against the northern boundaries of Los Angeles, the Mojave Desert can be considered Hollywood’s backyard if not its backlot. See the Mojave take on multiple guises in well-loved movies throughout the decades.

On a smaller scale, recreational prospecting is thriving throughout the West — especially in its desert regions.

A historical gold boom has resulted in thousands of abandoned mines spread across the Mojave desert that have grave environmental repercussions.

Exploration of the Mojave Desert was directly driven by the desire to locate gold. These hell-bent gold seekers would bring about enduring cultural transformations and irreversible environmental legacies within California and other western states.

Mojave, CA (pop. 4,238) has been the center of civilian-led, commercial space travel since 2004. Astronautics companies are now reaching into space in their effort to provide commercial spaceflight to those who can afford it.

Author/activist Chris Clarke outlines the cultural and ecological history of the iconic Joshua Tree—while highlighting the profound symbiotic relationships that sustains this unusual plant species now threatened by climate change.