Monturaqui crater, Impact crater in Atacama Desert, Chile
The Monturaqui crater measures 350 meters in diameter and reaches a depth of 34 meters, containing a salt pan formation within its boundaries.
Scientists identified this geological formation as an impact crater in 1966 through detailed studies, following initial observations from aerial photographs taken in 1962.
An ancient Inka road connecting the Pacific Ocean to San Pedro de Atacama and Argentina passes within 200 meters of this geological formation.
The crater sits at 3,015 meters elevation in a remote desert location, requiring visitors to bring adequate water supplies and protection against intense solar radiation.
The meteorite impact generated temperatures exceeding 1,400 degrees Celsius, creating rare minerals and impact glass formations throughout the crater structure.
Location: San Pedro de Atacama
GPS coordinates: -23.92750,-68.26167
Latest update: March 8, 2025 23:12
Meteorite craters mark locations where asteroids collided with Earth. These geological structures range from 110 meters to 300 kilometers in diameter. They often contain distinct minerals like diamonds, nickel, and copper. Scientists use the craters to study Earth's history and cosmic events.
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