Kara crater

Kara crater is an impact structure spanning about 65 kilometers across, located within the Timan-Pechora Basin. The formation contains limestone and dolomite rocks and lies buried beneath younger geological layers.

The structure formed about 70.3 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous when an asteroid struck. Sedimentary layers subsequently buried the impact site, concealing it from geological view for millions of years.

The crater area overlaps with territories of the Nenets people, who continue their traditional lifestyle in the northern Russian tundra. Indigenous communities use the upland for herding and hunting, practices passed down through generations.

Access requires specialized vehicles and official permits due to the remote Arctic location and harsh environment. Visitors must prepare thoroughly for extreme temperatures and minimal infrastructure in this isolated region.

Research suggests the structure originally measured about 120 kilometers across before erosion reshaped it. This would place it among Earth's four largest known impact craters.

Location: Nenets Autonomous Okrug

GPS coordinates: 69.10000,64.15000

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:04