This image depicts a bullseye structure, the Richat structure, in Mauritania. It was first noticed by space shuttle crews because of its prominent multiple ring features. The structure has a diameter of almost 50 km and was initially interpreted as an impact crater (a feature formed by the impact of a meteorite with Earth). However, so far no evidence has been found to support this interpretation (shock features or any other evidence). It is now believed to have been formed by the erosion of a symmetrical uplift of rock layers including limestone, dolomite, sandstone, mudstone and chert and therefore is often called the Richat dome. Notice the sand dunes of the desert encroaching from the south.
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Year: 2008
Details: Africa
Media Type: Map
Data Type: Bathymetry
Device Type: Sonar:Multibeam
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Investigator: MGDS
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