NASA satellite images reveal a strange eye-shaped structure in the Sahara

A mysterious eye-shaped structure in the Sahara has become the latest geological formation captured by the Earth Observatory of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

Located in northwestern Mauritania, the Richat Structure spans approximately 28 to 31 miles (45 to 50 km) in diameter and is large enough to be seen in its entirety from space. As shown in the images released by NASA, its concentric rings, composed of sedimentary and igneous rock, make it instantly recognizable.

How was the ‘eye of the Sahara’ created?

The origin of this structure has long been debated within the scientific community. Some studies once suggested that it may have been formed by a meteorite impact.

However, geological research has shown otherwise. Studies such as one conducted by the University of Quebec in Canada concluded that the formation is actually the result of a geological dome, also known as a domed anticline.

The structure is surrounded by vast fields of longitudinal and transverse dunes, which develop perpendicular to the direction of the wind. According to NASA’s historical records, the first photograph of the formation was taken in 1965 during the Gemini 4 mission. Since then, it has been photographed on multiple occasions due to the strong interest it continues to generate among astronauts.

As for its evolution, the most significant changes the structure has undergone include the gradual erosion of its rings, the exposure of new rock layers, and shifts in the surrounding dune landscape. These processes, which have been active for millions of years, continue to reveal the geological history of the region one ring at a time.

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