Google Maps User Discovers Unknown 390-Million-Year-Old Meteorite Crater in Quebec

A vast, ancient meteorite crater, previously unknown to science, has been discovered in Quebec's Côte-Nord region thanks to a keen-eyed amateur astronomer. Joël Lapointe stumbled upon the perfectly circular structure, about 25 kilometers wide, while browsing Google Maps for camping spots in 2024. His find prompted further investigation, leading to the official confirmation of its historical significance.

Geologists, led by Professor Gordon Osinski from Western University, undertook a challenging expedition in October 2025 to the remote area. Facing harsh terrain and swarms of insects, the team successfully identified key geological evidence, including impact shock cones and melted bedrock. These findings confirmed the crater's formation by a meteorite impact.

Radiometric dating of samples revealed the crater to be approximately 390 million years old. This rare discovery, officially named Uhaachatik after consultation with the local Ekuanitshit Innu community, is one of only about 200 confirmed impact craters on Earth and adds to Canada's 31 known sites. The findings are set to be presented at the Meteoritical Society meeting in Germany.

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It was one of the most difficult expeditions of my career.