Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Richat Structure Revealed as Ancient Geological Dome, Not Impact Crater

12/6/2025

50 5

Summary

Story summary

The Richat Structure in Mauritania's Sahara is now understood as a deeply eroded geological dome formed by molten rock pushing beneath the surface.
ESA's Copernicus satellite images reveal concentric rings and a span of about 31 miles (50 km).
It was previously thought to be a meteorite impact crater.
Erosion over millions of years removed softer rocks and left quartzite-rich sandstones as prominent ridges.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Richat Structure in Mauritania's Sahara is now understood as a deeply eroded geological dome formed by molten rock pushing beneath the surface.
ESA's Copernicus satellite images reveal concentric rings and a span of about 31 miles (50 km).
It was previously thought to be a meteorite impact crater.
Erosion over millions of years removed softer rocks and left quartzite-rich sandstones as prominent ridges.