Weird Places: Mauritania's Eye of the Sahara

The Eye of the Sahara, also known as the Reshot Structure, is a geological marvel in Mauritania. Visible from space, it was initially thought to be a crater but is actually a deeply eroded geologic dome. Formed over 100 million years ago due to tectonic activity, the dome's concentric circles are a result of erosion of different rock types. The oldest rocks are at the center, with younger rocks forming the outer layers. The structure's unique landscape is due to varying erosion rates of sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rocks.

What geological feature is known as the Eye of the Sahara?

How did scientists initially interpret the formation of the Eye of the Sahara?

What is the primary composition of the layers within the Eye of the Sahara?

What role did hydrothermal water play in the erosion of the Eye of the Sahara?

Describe the process that led to the formation of the concentric landscape of the Eye of the Sahara.