Why did the Soviet Union stop drilling at 12,262 meters?

​​The reason is actually quite simple and not as complicated as imagined; it's because this depth has reached the physical limits of the Earth and also the technological limits of the Soviet Union.

​​The high temperatures underground mean that many materials cannot be used as drill rods, as these materials become as soft as noodles when exposed to high temperatures, making it impossible to bear the heavy workload of continued drilling.

​​Additionally, it's not just a matter of drilling mindlessly downwards; the entire process requires a mud circulation system to prevent collapse of the borehole.

​​From this, it can be seen that the technology of the Soviet big brother was indeed impressive. After all, being able to reach this depth at that time was probably the limit; the rock layers below were likely in a liquid state, making the drill useless.

​​However, if we were to consider today's technology, I wonder if it could break through this depth. I think it probably could, but is it really necessary?