Beaverhead impact structure explained

Beaverhead impact structure
Map:Idaho
Map Size:250
Coordinates:44.6°N -113°W
Confidence:confirmed[1]
Diameter:60km (40miles)
Age:600 million years
Exposed:Yes
Drilled:No
Country:United States
State:Idaho, Montana

The Beaverhead impact structure is the second largest impact structure within the U.S. It lies within the states of Idaho and Montana. Estimated at 60km (40miles) in diameter, it is the ninth largest impact crater on Earth.

With an estimated age of 600 million years (Neoproterozoic), the impact's original shatter cones along the impact structure's perimeter provide some of the structure's only remaining visible evidence.

It is named for the Beaverhead region of southwestern Montana in which it was first discovered.

See also

Further reading

Notes and References

  1. Beaverhead . 2015-01-02.