Ancient Richat Structure in Sahara Desert Revealed in Stunning New Satellite Images

The Richat Structure, a geological marvel located in the Sahara Desert of northern Mauritania, has recently drawn attention from the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission. Known for its striking circular shape reminiscent of a bull’s-eye, this 50-kilometer-wide feature stands out against the vast expanse of golden sand in the Adrar Region. Initially thought to have formed from a meteor impact, current research suggests that it was created by the uplifting of a large dome of molten rock. Once this rock reached the surface, it was sculpted by erosion from wind, sand, and water. Geologists estimate that the Richat Structure is at least 100 million years old.

The unique formation, often referred to as the “eye of the Sahara” or the “eye of Africa,” is more easily visible from orbit than from the ground. It has served as a recognizable landmark for astronauts since the dawn of space exploration. Recent images taken in September 2025 present two distinct views of the structure: one in natural color and the other using false-color techniques to showcase specific geological features.

In the false-color image, varying rates of erosion on different rock types are strikingly apparent. The outer rings and high ridges, composed of more erosion-resistant quartzite sandstones, appear in shades of red and pink, while valleys of less-resistant rock are depicted in darker hues. The central rings rise about 80 meters above the surrounding landscape and contain older rock formations than those found in the outer layers. Surrounding the structure are the elevated Adrar plateau, which is composed of sedimentary rock standing approximately 200 meters above the desert sands. These sands, part of the expansive Erg Ouarane, stretch for hundreds of kilometers toward Mali.

In the southern part of the Richat Structure, encroaching sand is also visible, along with specks of individual trees and bushes, which appear as purple dots in the altered-color image. This unique layering and the presence of vegetation following ancient riverbed patterns further enhance the region’s geological significance. The Richat Structure continues to be a point of interest not only for scientists but also for those fascinated by the natural wonders of our planet.