Scientists Unearth Mysterious Meteorite Crater in China

Published: Friday, November 14, 2025 at 7:00 pm

Massive Meteorite Crater Discovered in China, Sparking Debate

Scientists have announced the discovery of a large impact crater in China, potentially dating back to the Holocene epoch. The bowl-shaped structure, dubbed the Jinlin crater, spans approximately 900 meters in width, a significant size that has captured the attention of the scientific community.

The research, published in the journal *Matter and Radiation at Extremes*, suggests the crater was formed by a meteorite impact during the early to mid-Holocene, which began around 12,000 years ago. This age estimate, however, is based on analysis of chemical and physical weathering rates, a method that some experts caution is prone to error.

While the research team believes the impact likely occurred during the Holocene, the exact timeframe remains uncertain. Several experts not involved in the study have expressed the need for further investigation to confirm the age. One expert noted that the Holocene age estimate is inferred, not directly measured, making it less precise.

Other experts are more optimistic, pointing out that the researchers themselves acknowledge the need for additional dating. A more precise method for determining the crater's age would involve measuring the decay rate of radioactive isotopes within the rocks, a process that is more time-consuming and resource-intensive.

The discovery has generated interest and debate within the scientific community, highlighting the complexities of dating geological events and the ongoing need for rigorous research and verification. The team has been contacted for comment.

BNN's Perspective: The discovery of the Jinlin crater is a fascinating development, underscoring the dynamic nature of our planet and the ongoing process of scientific discovery. While the age of the crater remains a subject of debate, the find highlights the importance of continued investment in scientific research and the need for careful analysis and peer review. The scientific community's cautious approach to the dating of the crater is a testament to the rigorous standards that underpin credible scientific inquiry.

Keywords: meteorite crater, China, Jinlin crater, Holocene, impact crater, geology, scientific research, dating, radioactive isotopes, weathering rates, Matter and Radiation at Extremes

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