On August 5, 2010, a significant mining accident occurred at the San José Mine near Copiapó, Chile, trapping 33 miners underground. Following a cave-in, the miners became isolated approximately 2,300 feet below the surface. Their rescue became a global sensation, captivating millions as the world anxiously awaited news of their fate. The Chilean government, along with international assistance, launched an extensive rescue operation that included drilling a borehole to establish communication with the miners and assess their condition. After 17 days without contact, a handwritten note was discovered, confirming that all 33 miners were alive and safe. This news provided a glimmer of hope and initiated a phase of meticulous planning focused on their eventual rescue.

A drilling operation commenced using a drill called 'Plan B', capable of reaching the trapped miners. As weeks passed, the rescue effort gained momentum, employing the specially designed Phoenix capsule to bring the miners to safety. It took 48 hours to pull the first miner out, and the operation continued until all 33 were brought to the surface on October 13. Each miner was greeted with cheers, tears, and celebrations, their arduous ordeal complete. The painstaking process was lauded for its effectiveness and the international cooperation it inspired.

Once on the surface, the miners shared their harrowing stories, revealing struggles against both physical and mental challenges during their time underground. The event sparked discussions about mining safety regulations, emergency preparedness, and labor conditions worldwide, ultimately leading to heightened scrutiny and reforms within the mining industry. It also became a symbol of human resilience and the indomitable spirit of survival amidst dire circumstances.