Australian scientists discovered the oldest meteorite impact crater, a finding that could redefine understanding about the origins of life and the earth itself, according to a study published on Thursday.
The crater, found in a remote area of northwest Australia, “significantly challenges previous assumptions about the ancient history of our planet,” said researchers at the University of Curtin, who found evidence of an impact 3,500 million years ago.
“Before our discovery, the oldest impact crater was 2.2 billion years old, therefore, this is the oldest crater ever found on earth,” said Professor Tim Johnson, co -author of the study.
You may be interested: This year’s Nobel Peace Nobel has 338 nominees
Australian scientists discover the oldest meteorite crater
Professor Chris Kirkland, also co -author of the study explained that this discovery sheds new light on the role of meteorites in the formation of the primitive environment of the earth.
“Discovering this impact and finding more of the same era could explain a lot about how life could have begun, since impact craters created favorable environments for microbial life, as hot water pools,” said Kirkland.
“Also radically refine our understanding of the formation of the earth’s crust, since the enormous amount of energy generated by this impact could have influenced the configuration of the early bark of the earth,” he added.
It is estimated that the meteorite hit the area more than 36,000 kilometers per hour, forming a crater of more than 100 kilometers wide and possibly spreading debris throughout the planet, according to the study.
With agency information.
Do you like photos and news? Follow us on our Instagram
