Formation in Canada Discovered via Google Earth May Be Ancient Meteorite Crater

The formation was named Uhakatik after approval from the Innu Council of Ekuanitshit, as it is located on the traditional lands of this Indigenous people.

Rocks Point to Ancient Impact

During the expedition, scientists identified so-called 'impact metamorphism effects'—changes caused by the extreme pressure and heat generated when a meteorite collides with the surface. Among the identified signs are melted and recrystallized rocks; fragmentation cones formed by the shockwave; microscopic mineral changes; and possible chemical traces related to high temperatures.

The rocks melted by the impact look exactly like this: they are large volumes of rock that liquefied during the event, then cooled and crystallized, resembling volcanic rocks. Gordon Osinsky noted that finding such preserved material was surprising, as similar structures usually disappear due to erosion.

Crater Could Aid Study of Moon and Mars

Very ancient craters are difficult to find on Earth because geological processes alter their characteristics over millions of years. Therefore, Uhakatik could become a standard for understanding impacts on other planets. Osinsky compared the new formation to the Camecrater, which is also in Canada and used in lunar exploration research. He stated: 'For craters comparable to Uhakatik, Camecrater is indeed an excellent reference point because the size is very similar.'

Scientists continue to analyze samples collected at the site to find new evidence, such as chemical changes caused by intense heat and deformations in minerals like quartz. In addition to studying the potential crater, Osinsky will continue to participate in space exploration projects and join geological groups supporting future Artemis missions to the Moon.