Canadian man discovers possible ancient meteor crater while using Google Maps

Joël Lapointe, a resident of Quebec, Canada, was preparing for a camping trip when he stumbled upon a peculiar pit while using Google Maps. Intrigued by the satellite imagery, he reached out to Pierre Rochette, a French geophysicist, who examined the site and suggested it might be an ancient meteor impact crater. Rochette's analysis revealed the presence of zircon, a mineral indicative of meteor impacts, prompting further investigation into the site's geological significance. Tara Hayden, a postdoctoral associate at Western University, emphasized the potential of this discovery to provide insights into the history of meteor impacts on Earth. The study of such craters is crucial for understanding the dynamics of collisions within our solar system. Gordon Osinski, an Earth sciences professor, noted that while many circular structures can be found using modern mapping tools, true impact craters are rare and valuable to geologists. The excitement surrounding this find is palpable, as it could lead to a deeper understanding of Earth's interactions with celestial bodies. Osinski and his team are considering a field visit to the site to conduct further research. The implications of this discovery extend beyond mere curiosity; they could enhance our knowledge of the universe and Earth's geological history. Overall, this incident highlights the importance of careful observation and investigation in the field of geology. It serves as a reminder that even in the age of technology, significant discoveries can arise from simple explorations, potentially reshaping our understanding of the planet's past.