Unseen Visuals Reveal the Extraordinary Life of Geologist Pyotr Skornyakov

A new illustrated book about the life and work of geologist Pyotr Skornyakov is set for release in late 2026. Okhotnik Publishing House will publish the volume, featuring previously unseen visual materials. The book aims to serve as a reference for travellers, historians, and educators. Pyotr Skornyakov was born in 1909 in Novo-Petrovsk, Mogilev Region. After finishing secondary school in 1927, he began his career as a rural schoolteacher. By 1928, he had moved to Moscow, where he worked as a draftsman at the Moscow Mining Academy until 1929.

Between 1931 and 1939, Skornyakov led field parties in the Kolyma region. During this time, he authored over 50 scientific works, with 30 dedicated to lode gold deposits. In 1932, while on the Sangar-Talon Expedition, he named Jack London Lake in the area.

From 1940 to 1944, he held the position of chief geologist for several mining enterprises under Dalstroy. In 1945, he shifted to academic work, studying and documenting ore deposits as a senior geologist in Dalstroy’s research division. By 1949, he had risen to head of the geological exploration department at VINI-1. Later, in 1952, he became deputy director for scientific affairs. The upcoming book will highlight Skornyakov’s extensive contributions to geology and exploration. It will provide new insights into his expeditions, research, and legacy. The publication is expected to reach a wide audience interested in history, science, and travel.