Kärdla Meteorite Crater
Hiiumaa
The Kärdla Meteorite Crater, located near the town of Kärdla on Hiiumaa island in Estonia, is a significant geological structure formed approximately 455 million years ago during the Late Ordovician period. Measuring about 4 kilometers in diameter, this impact crater was created by a meteorite that struck a shallow sea environment, resulting in a massive explosion and a ring-shaped uplifted rim. Although the crater is not visible at the surface due to sediment fill and geological processes over millions of years, parts of its raised ring, such as the Paluküla, Tubala, and Linnumäe hills, remain discernible in the landscape. The crater has been thoroughly studied and is one of the best-preserved impact structures from the early Paleozoic era. Today, it serves as an important natural monument and tourist attraction, with a model field built at Paluküla that represents the crater at a 1:100 scale, helping visitors visualize its true size and form. The impact event is linked to the breakup of a large asteroid, possibly related to other craters in Sweden. The site is also notable for its mineral water resources and ongoing geological research, reflecting its scientific and cultural significance.
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Astuce: Visit during late spring to early autumn for the best weather and accessibility. It is recommended to explore the PalukĂĽla model field to grasp the crater's scale. While the crater itself is not visible, the model and surrounding hills provide excellent interpretation. Check local visitor centers for guided tours and information. Tickets or access to the model field may require prior arrangement, especially during peak seasons. Discounts may be available for groups, students, or seniors. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain includes natural trails and uneven ground.
Faits intéressants
- •The crater is about 4 kilometers in diameter but is not visible at the surface due to sediment fill.
- •It was formed during the Late Ordovician period, approximately 455 million years ago.
- •The impact is linked to the breakup of a 100 km asteroid, potentially related to craters in Sweden.
- •A 1:100 scale model of the crater exists at Paluküla to help visitors visualize its size.
- •The deepest drilling at the site reached over 800 meters, revealing extensively shattered bedrock caused by the impact.
Histoire
The Kärdla crater was formed about 455 million years ago when a meteorite impacted a shallow sea in the Late Ordovician period, creating a 4-kilometer-wide crater.
Initially studied in the 19th century by geologists such as Karl Eduard von Eichwald, the structure's true origin as a meteorite crater was only confirmed in the early 1980s after extensive geological and geophysical research.
Over the decades, drilling and mapping revealed the crater's morphology and the extent of impact-related rock deformation.
The site also produced mineral water extracted in the late 20th century.
The crater's recognition as a significant astrobleme has led to its protection and development as a natural heritage and tourist site.
Guide du lieu
PalukĂĽla Model FieldModern
A 43-meter diameter scaled-down model of the Kärdla crater at 1:100 scale, including a 140-meter long ring ridge, located at Paluküla. It offers visitors a tangible sense of the crater's size and shape, which is otherwise invisible in the landscape.
Paluküla, Tubala, and Linnumäe HillsOrdovician
Elevated parts of the crater's ring rim that remain visible in the terrain, representing the uplifted edges of the impact structure. These hills provide natural viewpoints and geological interest.