In 1971, a group of Soviet geologists went to the Karakum Desert, in central Turkmenistan, in search of oil fields. They found, what they believed to be a substantial oil field and began to drill. The ground was unsteady, and before they could get their equipment to safety, the the site collapsed. Their equipment was gone.
The nearby sedimentary rock of the desert began to collapse in other places too. By the time all was said and done, several open craters were left visible. The largest of these craters measured approximately 230 feet across and 65 feet deep. While no one was hurt, the scientists had a new problem on their hands. Natural gas was escaping from the exposed crater.
The concern was, the natural gas, composed mostly of methane, would displace oxygen, making it difficult to breathe. The scientists were concerned for the nearby wildlife; animals in the area were already starting to die.
Another area of concern was the gas’ flammability. There only needs to be 5% methane in the air to fuel an explosion. The scientists decided their safest bet was to light the crater on fire, with the hopes the gases would burn away within a few weeks’ time.
Now, some 45+ years later, the crater still burns. Scientists don’t know just how much natural gas is feeding the fire, or if it will ever go out. Locals in the area have named the crater “The Door to Hell,” or “The Gates of Hell.” And it’s no wonder, as thousands of spiders can bee seen throwing themselves into the pit, no doubt lured by the dancing flames.
You can visit the Darvaza gas crater. It’s about 161 miles from the Turkmen capital Ashgabat. Tours are encouraged, and can be booked through agents in Ashgabat. The best time to visit the crater is at night, when the fire can be seen from miles away, though the smoke and flames are visible by day.
If you’d like to see the crater, without the travel, check out our video here.
Next, take a look at Odessa, Ukraine. There you will find the largest catacomb system in the world.