Are you a science enthusiast or simply fascinated by the wonders of the universe? Then you must visit the Barringer Space Museum, located in northern Arizona. Here you can tour the famous Meteor Crater and learn all about meteorites. This museum is a must-see for anyone with an interest in astronomy and the history of our planet.
The Discovery of the Meteor Crater
The history of the Meteor Crater began some 50,000 years ago when a small asteroid crashed into Earth at a speed of about 26,000 miles per hour. The impact created an enormous crater, and to this day, it remains one of the best-preserved meteorite craters in the world. The crater is about 550 feet deep and measures almost a mile in diameter.
The discovery of the crater occurred in the early 20th century, and it was identified as a meteorite impact site. In the 1950s, the Barringer family purchased the land and deemed the crater a national landmark. Today, the Barringer Space Museum provides education, research, and exploration opportunities for visitors from all over the world.
The Fascinating World of Meteorites
The Barringer Space Museum not only showcases the Meteor Crater but also provides visitors an opportunity to explore the fascinating world of meteorites. A meteorite is a solid piece of debris from a meteoroid, asteroid, or comet that has traveled through space and impacted the Earth’s surface. The museum has a collection of over 1,000 meteorite fragments sourced from impact sites around the world.
Visitors can observe meteorites on display and learn about the various types, including iron, stony, and stony-iron meteorites. The museum also provides explanations of the different classifications of meteorites and the elements and minerals they contain. As you explore the exhibits, you will discover the incredible properties of meteorites that make them so fascinating to experts and enthusiasts alike.
Visiting the Barringer Space Museum
A visit to the Barringer Space Museum should be on your must-do list when traveling to northern Arizona. The museum is open daily, except on holidays, and the tour of the Meteor Crater is self-guided. Visitors are welcome to explore the crater at their own pace, and there are a variety of viewing platforms to enjoy the magnificent site.
The museum also provides a unique opportunity to learn about the geological history of the area and the impact of meteorites. You can learn about the various tools and techniques used to study the crater and its impact on the environment.
Conclusion
The Barringer Space Museum is a fantastic destination that provides visitors with an opportunity to explore the unparalleled wonders of the universe. The Meteor Crater, with its fascinating history and incredible impact, is an essential sight to see. The museum’s collection of meteorites and exhibits offer educational insights into the world of astronomy and scientific discoveries. Visiting the Barringer Space Museum is an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss.