Siberia’s ‘Gateway to Hell’ Crater Expands: Now Visible from Space

The Batagaika crater, ominously nicknamed the ‘Gateway to Hell,’ has become a striking symbol of the rapid changes occurring in Earth’s polar regions.

This massive geological formation in Siberia has grown so large that it’s now visible from space, capturing the attention of scientists and the public alike.

What is the Batagaika Crater?

Siberia’s ‘Gateway to Hell’ Crater Expands: Now Visible from Space » Batagaika crater NASA wc
Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory images by Jesse Allen, using Landsat data from the U.S. Geological Survey., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Officially known as the Batagay megaslump, this enormous crater is located in the Yana Uplands of northern Yakutia, Russia. 

Its sheer size is staggering – currently spanning approximately 200 acres and reaching depths of up to 300 feet. The crater’s unique “tadpole-shaped” appearance makes it easily recognizable from satellite imagery.

The Origins of the Batagaika Crater

Siberia’s ‘Gateway to Hell’ Crater Expands: Now Visible from Space » Batagaika Crater Sakha Republic wc
Image Credit: Contains modified Copernicus Sentinel data 2020, Attribution, via Wikimedia Commons

The story of the Batagaika crater begins in the mid-1960s when it was first spotted. Surprisingly, its formation was triggered by human activity, specifically deforestation in the area. But what started as a small disturbance has grown into a massive geological phenomenon.

The underlying process driving the crater’s growth is the thawing of permafrost – ground that normally remains frozen throughout the year. As this permafrost melts, it leads to erosion and soil collapse, causing the crater to expand.

The Rapid Growth of the ‘Gateway to Hell’

Siberia’s ‘Gateway to Hell’ Crater Expands: Now Visible from Space » Gateway to Hell Batagaika Crater wc
Image Credit: Contains modified Copernicus Sentinel data 2020, CC BY-SA 3.0 IGO, via Wikimedia Commons

Since its discovery in the 1960s, the Batagaika crater has been expanding at an alarming rate. Recent years have seen an acceleration in its growth, with the crater now increasing in size faster than ever before.

It’s estimated to be growing 33 to 98 feet per year horizontally and up to 3 feet per year vertically. (ref) These numbers might seem abstract, but imagine a football field-sized chunk of land disappearing each year. That’s the scale we’re dealing with.

Environmental Implications of the Expanding Crater

Siberia’s ‘Gateway to Hell’ Crater Expands: Now Visible from Space » Permafrost thaw wc
Image Credit: Contains modified Copernicus Sentinel data 2018, CC BY-SA 3.0 IGO, via Wikimedia Commons

The growth of the Batagaika crater isn’t just a local curiosity – it has significant environmental implications that extend far beyond Siberia.

As the permafrost thaws, it releases trapped greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane. These gases contribute to global warming, creating a feedback loop that further accelerates permafrost melting.

The expanding crater is also dramatically altering local soil and water systems. This, in turn, affects the flora and fauna that have adapted to the harsh Siberian environment over thousands of years.

Scientific Research & Findings

Siberia’s ‘Gateway to Hell’ Crater Expands: Now Visible from Space » Flag of Sakha waving flag ss2467811101
Image Credit: zmotions/Shutterstock

A recent study published in the journal Geomorphology has shed new light on the evolution and future of the Batagaika Crater. The researchers used advanced 3D modeling techniques to analyze how the crater has changed over time and predict its future development. (ref)

One of the most alarming discoveries is that despite the crater having nearly reached bedrock, it could continue to melt and release harmful gases. Lead author and glaciologist Alexander Kizyakov suggests that the remaining methane in the area will eventually be released into the atmosphere.

The Batagaika Crater: a Wake-Up Call for Climate Action

Siberia’s ‘Gateway to Hell’ Crater Expands: Now Visible from Space » Verkhoyansky Ulus Sakha Republic1 wc
Image Credit: Capella Space, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

As you consider the implications of this massive crater, remember that it’s not just a far-off phenomenon in Siberia. The processes driving its growth – rising temperatures and melting permafrost – are occurring across the Arctic and have global consequences. 

The Batagaika Crater is a stark reminder that our planet is changing rapidly, and that we all have a role to play in addressing climate change.

Martha A. Lavallie
Martha A. Lavallie
Author & Editor | + posts

Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.