While scouting satellite maps for a camping spot in Quebec, an amateur astronomer uncovered a striking circular feature that led scientists to confirm a massive 25-kilometer-wide impact crater dating back 390 million years.
- Crater spans roughly 25 kilometers, with a distinctive central uplift.
- Shatter cones found confirm impact origin, not volcanic activity.
- Discovery pushes back known major impacts on Earth by 100 million years.
What happened
An amateur astronomer named Joël Lapointe was examining satellite images of Quebec’s Côte-Nord region in 2024 in preparation for a camping trip. He spotted a strange circular formation near Lake Marsal and suspected it might be an ancient impact crater. Seeking expert opinions, he reached out to researchers in Europe and North America. This sparked interest among scientists who later organized a challenging field expedition in October 2025.
The team, led by planetary geologist Gordon Osinski, had to navigate harsh terrain with dense vegetation and swampy conditions to reach the site. Early geological observations mistook the structure for a volcanic formation, but fieldwork uncovered shatter cones — telltale signs of an asteroid impact formed under extreme pressure. This confirmed the site as a 25-kilometer-wide impact crater, one of the largest discovered recently.
Why it feels good
The find is a testament to how curious individuals can contribute to scientific discovery, bridging amateur enthusiasm with professional research. Lapointe’s sharp observation illustrates the power of citizen science and modern satellite technology in uncovering Earth’s hidden past. It’s a reminder that many geological secrets still await discovery in remote places.
Moreover, identifying impact craters helps scientists better understand Earth’s geological history and the effects of cosmic collisions on climate and life. This crater dates back nearly 400 million years, offering clues from a period predating a known spike in asteroid impacts. Each discovery enriches our knowledge of planetary processes and Earth’s evolving environment.
What to enjoy or watch next
Following formal recognition by the Meteoritical Society, the crater Uhackatik will likely attract increased scientific attention. Although its remote location makes it difficult to visit, it joins a select group of confirmed impact sites worldwide, offering a unique natural laboratory for researchers interested in planetary geology and impact mechanics.
Meanwhile, experts like Osinski continue to compare this site with others such as Kameshtashtan in Labrador, which has been used for astronaut training. As exploration of these ancient scars progresses, keep an eye out for updates on how these discoveries inform everything from asteroid defense strategies to our understanding of Earth’s deep past.