IDENTIFICATION OF AN EXTRA-TERRESTRIAL IMPACT CRATER (ETIC): A CASE STUDY OF SILALI CRATER, KENYA

Abstract

For years, extra-terrestrial impact cratering was esoteric. However, impacts have become very important currently, mainly because they have been identified as the likely immediate cause of dinosaur extinction. Impact cratering by extra-terrestrial bodies including asteroids comets and meteorites is an important geologic process, not only for the minerals that it forms, but also because of the knowledge that it is dangerous to mankind and life on earth. There is also the fact that extra-terrestrial impact crater building is a continuous process that may be going on even this very minute, somewhere in the universe. Consequently, the earth, just like other members of the solar system, is targeted by extra-terrestrial falling objects. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of impact cratering on Kenya’s environment, with focus on Silali basin. Silali basin is a depression that is found to the north of Lake Baringo; around Kapedo town. It is suspected to be an Extra –Terrestrial Impact Crater (ETIC). The objectives of the study were to: Map and characterize the Silali basin/crater and provide evidence on the nature of its formation. Secondly, to document the effect that the impact cratering of Silali had on the environment in the area. To attain these objectives, remote sensing was utilized to map the Silali basin. Satellite images were used to identify the nature of the crater and characterize it, since most large terrestrial impact craters are not identifiable from the surface of the earth. The images provided critical information that was used to map out the morphological aspects of the crater, some of which have long been buried by forces of denudation, together with tectonic and anthropogenic forces. Analysis of satellite images and ground pictures was supplemented by other research methods, including interviews, analysis of secondary data, observation and sampling of various rocks. Information gathered has been presented in the form of analyzed satellite images, ground pictures, tables, Digital Elevation Models, cross sections, an aerial photograph, maps and discussions. This study has characterized the Silali basin as a possible ETIC and explained the nature of its formation. In addition, it has documented the effects of Silali’s impact cratering on the environment in the area to include formation of physical features and rock formations. The crater’s potential economic and social significance has also been cited and include tourism, paragliding, quarrying of breccias and geothermal power harvesting.