Who knew the iconic U.S. Route 66 also offers a geologic must see? Wayne Gerdes – CleanMPG – July 3, 2024 Winslow, AZ -- Meteor Crater is a stunning natural landmark located just 18-miles due west - as the crow fly’s, of Winslow just off I-40/Rt. 66. While I have passed Meteor Crater tens if not over a hundred times wondering what was out there, it was time to find out what all the hubbub was all about. It is a huge crater alright. An oblong formation first thought to be formed by volcanic activity, it measures approximately 5,000 ft across from side to side and 4,000 ft across when measured from the visitor center to its furthest edge looking forward. It also measures almost 600 ft deep and to this day, it is one of the best-preserved meteorite impact sites on the planet. From the various presentations offered at the visitor center, the crater was formed approximately 50,000 years ago when a 100,000-ton, nickel-iron meteorite estimated to be 150 ft in diameter, collided with the Earth at a speed of 30,000 mph. Beginning in 1890s, excavations to extract the valuable minerals have proven fruitless as most of the meteorite was vaporized in the blast. The energy released upon impact was equivalent to a 10 megaton (MT) nuclear blast - minus any radiation of course, creating a massive explosion that left behind the crater we see today. A morbid indication as the what a 10 MT blast would do, any animal standing within 6 to 10-miles of the impact would have been obliterated by the overpressure blast wave or closer in, the intense heat created if you were considering the answer to that question. I was for some reason??? The crater played a crucial role in the study of impact cratering and the processes that shape planetary surfaces. Geologists have extensively studied the site, uncovering evidence of shock-metamorphosed rocks and high-pressure minerals that confirm its extraterrestrial origin. The crater also serves as a natural laboratory for understanding the effects of large impacts, which are important for both planetary science and assessing the potential hazards of a future impact on Earth. Daniel Barringer, a mining engineer who was the first to suggest that the crater was formed by a meteorite impact rather than volcanic activity, conducted drilling at the site in the early 20th century. His work was instrumental in establishing the impact origin of the crater and remains a testament to his pioneering efforts in the field of astrogeology. Along with the total amount of blast energy expended, one of the lesser-known features of Meteor crater was of a more modern nature. In 1964, there were two pilots flying a Cessna 150 above the crater who decided to take a closer look. Unbeknownst to them, the crater itself is 10 to 20 degrees warmer than the surrounding desert plains on which it is located. The pilots thought, hey, would it be neat to fly into the crater? With the warmer temps came less lift. The little Cessna circled a few times within and eventually crashed along one of the ridges with the inability to climb over the rim. Both pilots survived, they were injured, and pieces of the crashed Cessna's wings can still be seen within the crater itself. The Meteor Crater Visitor Center is owned by the Barringer family and features informative exhibits, a theater showing a short film about the crater's history, and an observation deck offering breathtaking views of the crater. Guided rim tours provide a closer look at the geological features and the opportunity to learn more about the impact event and its implications. In summary, Meteor Crater is a remarkable geologic landmark along the Mother Road that offers a unique window into the forces that shaped our planet. Its well-preserved state makes it a fascinating tourist destination for all ages. Hours of operation are from 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM daily with tickets priced - as of this visit, at the following: Free for children 5 and under $20 for ages 6 – 13 $29 for ages 14 – 59 $27 for seniors 60 and above $20 for Military Veterans Rt. 66 through Winslow, AZ Marian behind the wheel of the Prius Prime taking another drive through a bygone era. If you have already stopped by Meteor Crater while traveling Eastbound on 40, just down the road a piece are some iconic Rt. 66 haunts including the Eagles, “Standing on the Corner in Winslow, AZ” and dining at the RelicRoad restaurant across the street. I highly recommend the “Relic Burger” as a delectable delight prior to hitting the road again. If you are heading westbound on the 40, Winslow, AZ is a must stop and afterwards, Meteor Crater would be highly recommended.
"streetview" in the crater https://www.google.com/maps/@35.028...umbfov=90!7i13312!8i6656?coh=205410&entry=ttu
Hi Bill: What is Google Street View when you have a drone? Well ok, an amateur named "me" was behind the controls to gather the drone footage. The voice over was all thanks to my wonderful wife Marian. Wayne
