Ep 8. Henbury Craters, Australia
- December 28, 2010
- 48 min
In Meteorite Men season 2 episode 8, titled "Henbury Craters, Australia," hosts Geoff Notkin and Steve Arnold travel to the Australian Outback to explore a unique impact site. The Henbury Craters were discovered in 1899, but it wasn't until the 1930s that they were confirmed to be the result of a meteorite impact.
The site is home to 13 craters, the largest of which is 180 meters in diameter. Geoff and Steve begin their investigation by interviewing local residents about the history and geology of the area. They learn that the craters were formed approximately 4,700 years ago when a meteorite exploded in the atmosphere above the Outback. Pieces of the meteorite scattered across the desert, and fragments are still being found to this day.
The hosts set up camp near the craters and begin their search for meteorites. They use metal detectors and other specialized tools to scan the ground for fragments of the Henbury meteorite. The search proves to be challenging, as the landscape is rocky and covered in vegetation.
As they explore the area, Geoff and Steve discover evidence of other impact events in the region. They come across what appears to be a large impact crater, which they theorize could have been caused by a meteorite that struck the Earth millions of years ago.
The hosts also meet with local indigenous Australians, who share their own stories and beliefs about the Henbury Craters. They explain that the site is sacred to their culture and has been used in traditional ceremonies for generations.
Throughout the episode, Geoff and Steve provide interesting facts and insights about meteorites and impact events. They explain that studying impact sites like Henbury can provide valuable information about the formation of the solar system and the evolution of life on Earth.
As the episode comes to a close, the hosts reflect on their experience exploring the Henbury Craters. They express gratitude for the opportunity to witness such a unique geological phenomenon and to learn about the cultural significance of the site.
Overall, "Henbury Craters, Australia" is an engaging and informative episode of Meteorite Men. Viewers will enjoy learning about the history and science of meteorite impacts while exploring a beautiful and mysterious corner of the world.