Savonoski Crater

Savonoski Crater, located in Alaska's Katmai National Park, is a geological enigma measuring approximately 1,600 feet (500 meters) wide and 360 feet (110 meters) deep, with a lake occupying its center. Its circular shape, symmetry and dimensions make it an eye-catching natural landmark. Its rim rises up to 60 meters above the water basin which is partially filled by rainfall and snowmelt. The depth initially suggested a meteorite impact, but decades of research have failed to confirm this or identify a volcanic origin.[1][2]

## Key theories

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There are two main theories regarding its origin:

#### Meteorite impact hypothesis

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The crater's circular shape initially suggested that it might be the result of a meteorite impact. However, thorough investigations have failed to uncover any meteoritic fragments or shock-altered rocks—common hallmarks of impact events.[2][3]

#### Volcani marr hypothesis

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Alternatively, it could be a volcanic maar—a type of crater formed when rising magma interacts explosively with groundwater. This process creates a wide, water-filled depression. Yet, the absence of nearby volcanic vents or evidence of a magma source casts doubt on this hypothesis.[1]

Glacial Influence:

The region's geological history is further complicated by past glaciation events. When glaciers swept over the area between 23,000 and 14,700 years ago, they likely removed much of the evidence that could have helped determine the crater's true origin.[2][3]

## Scientific invstigation

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Despite extensive surveys in the 1960s and 1970s—and continued interest from the scientific community—the true nature of Savonoski Crater remains an unsolved puzzle.[4] It stands as a reminder of how dynamic and, at times, mysterious Earth's geological processes can be. Future research, including advanced imaging and possible drilling projects, may eventually unlock the secrets behind its formation.[5]

## Current conclusion

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In summary, while the Savonoski Crater's flawless roundness hints at either an extraterrestrial impact or a dramatic volcanic explosion, the lack of definitive evidence leaves its origins open to further investigation.[2]

## See also

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* Katmai National Park and Preserve

## References

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1. ^ a b "The Savonoski Problem". University of Alaska. 1978.
2. ^ a b c d published, Sascha Pare (2025-02-21). "Savonoski Crater: The mysterious, perfectly round hole in Alaska that scientists can't explain". livescience.com. Retrieved 2025-02-24.
3. ^ a b Andrew (2025-02-22). "Scientists Can't Explain This Perfectly Round Crater in Alaska—And It's Been a Mystery for Decades". Retrieved 2025-02-24.
4. ^ French, Bevan M.; Muller, Ernest H.; Ward, Peter L. (1972). "Savonoski Crater, Alaska: A Possible Meteorite Impact Structure". Meteoritics. 7 (2): 97–107\. doi:10.1111/j.1945-5100.1972.tb00430.x. ISSN 1945-5100.97-107&rft.date=1972&rft_id=info:doi/10.1111/j.1945-5100.1972.tb00430.x&rft.issn=1945-5100&rft.aulast=French&rft.aufirst=Bevan+M.&rft.au=Muller,+Ernest+H.&rft.au=Ward,+Peter+L.&rft_id=https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1945-5100.1972.tb00430.x&rfr_id=info:sid/en.wikipedia.org:Savonoski+Crater" class="Z3988">
5. ^ "Savanoski Crater, Alaska: A Possible Meteorite Impact Structure". 1972.