Key Information
Richat Structure
| Type | Eroded Geological Dome |
| Diameter | 25 miles |
| Other Names | Eye of the Sahara, Tagense |
Learning Point
- The Richat Structure is a geological dome that has been eroded leaving concentric rings of rock types that create a shape that looks like an “eye” from space, which is often called the “Eye of the Sahara“.
Project
- Draw a picture of the Richat Structure.
- Overview
- Topographical


Location
| Located in | Adrar Plateau, Mauritania |
Fun Facts
- The name “Richat” means “feather”, and the local name “Tagense” refers to the circular opening of a leather pouch for water.
- The structure is a geological dome, where the different layers of the dome have been eroded to the surface, making it look a bit like a bullseye.
- A number of early human rock tools have been found in the area, but no evidence that humans lived there for long periods of time.
- There is also evidence of massive water flow in across the area around the structure, perhaps occuring a few thousands years ago.
Past Lessons
| 50 | January 9, 2023 | (North America) |
| 211 | August 24, 2026 | (North America) |