Eye Of The Sahara or Richat Structure The Eye of the Sahara, also known as the Richat Structure, is a prominent geological feature located in the Sahara Desert near Ouadane, Mauritania. It is a vast circular formation characterized by a series of concentric rings and is visible from space. Here are some key details about the Eye of the Sahara: 1. Geological Formation: The Eye of the Sahara was formed over millions of years through a combination of geological processes. It is believed to be the eroded remains of a deeply buried and uplifted dome, or anticline, which has been exposed through erosion. 2. Physical Characteristics: The structure has a diameter of approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) and covers an area of about 2,500 square kilometers (965 square miles). It consists of alternating layers of sedimentary rock, including limestone, sandstone, and dolomite. 3. Distinctive Appearance: The Eye of the Sahara has a unique appearance, resembling a bullseye or an eye when viewed from above. It features a central circular depression, surrounded by concentric ridges and valleys that extend outward. The depression itself is nearly 40 kilometers (25 miles) in diameter and is marked by a series of raised domes and hills. 4. Origin of the Name: The structure is commonly known as the Eye of the Sahara due to its circular shape and resemblance to a human eye when viewed from space. The name "Richat Structure" is derived from the nearby town of Richat. 5. Discovery and Exploration: The Eye of the Sahara was first discovered by astronauts in space during the Gemini 4 mission in 1965. Its unique appearance caught their attention, and since then, it has been extensively studied by geologists, archaeologists, and scientists from various disciplines. 6. Hypotheses and Speculations: The exact formation process of the Eye of the Sahara is still a subject of scientific debate. While the most widely accepted explanation is that it resulted from uplift and subsequent erosion, other theories suggest that it could be the result of a volcanic eruption, a meteorite impact, or the remnants of an ancient supervolcano. #Travel #Education #Nature #Adventure #Educational