Meteor Crater, also known as Barringer Crater or Canyon Diablo Crater, is a meteorite impact crater located approximately 40 miles east of Flagstaff, Arizona, United States. Here are some key details about this remarkable geological feature:
Formation and Impact Event
- The crater was formed approximately 50,000 years ago when an iron-nickel meteorite, estimated to have been about 160 feet across and weighing several hundred thousand tons, struck the Earth at around 26,000 miles per hour.
- The impact released energy equivalent to more than 2.5 megatons of TNT, creating the crater in a matter of seconds.
Physical Characteristics
- The crater has a diameter of about 0.74 miles (1.2 kilometers) and a depth of 550 feet (170 meters).
- It is surrounded by a rim that rises up to 148 feet (45 meters) above the surrounding plains.
- The crater's bowl is largely intact due to the arid climate which has minimized erosion.
Historical and Scientific Significance
- Daniel M. Barringer was the first to propose that the crater was formed by a meteorite impact, not volcanic activity, in the early 20th century. His efforts led to extensive drilling and research at the site.
- The discovery of meteorite fragments around the crater confirmed the impact theory. These fragments, now known as Canyon Diablo meteorites, are iron-nickel in composition and are among the most studied meteorites in the world.
- The crater has been a significant site for geological and astronomical research, providing insights into impact cratering processes, meteorite composition, and planetary science.
Public Interest and Tourism
- Meteor Crater is now a popular tourist attraction, featuring an interactive visitor center, guided rim tours, and a museum showcasing meteorite samples and the history of the crater's discovery.
- It has been used as a training ground for astronauts preparing for lunar missions due to its similarity to lunar craters.
Legal and Ownership
- The land surrounding the crater is privately owned by the Barringer Crater Company, which has protected the site and facilitated research.
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