Lonar Lake in Maharashtra: Where Compasses Malfunction and the Sand is Magnetic
Approximately 52,000 years ago, a colossal meteor impact in Maharashtra created one of nature’s hidden gems: Lonar Lake. This extraordinary crater, formed by a meteor weighing 2 million tons traveling at an estimated speed of 90,000 kmph, stands out among the many meteor impacts on Earth.
From above, Lonar Lake might look like any other body of water. However, this almost perfectly oval lake is one of only two natural craters in the world made entirely of basalt, a dark, fine-grained volcanic rock. Its waters are seven times saltier than seawater, adding to its allure.
Discovery by Chance
For centuries, Lonar Crater remained one of Maharashtra’s best-kept secrets. Located about 170 km from Aurangabad and 550 km from Mumbai, the lake was virtually unknown. Treacherous paths, slippery terrain, and banks believed to be quicksand swamps deterred explorers.
It wasn’t until 1823, nearly 200 years ago, that British explorer J.E. Alexander stumbled upon the crater while researching the region’s ancient temples. He discovered many dilapidated temples and a unique ecology within the crater, distinct from the surrounding flat landscape. Initially, scientists believed the crater to be volcanic due to its location on the Deccan Plateau, known for its volcanic origins.
Myths and Legends
Local lore suggests a mythical origin for Lonar Lake, claiming it was formed when the demon Lonasura, who tormented locals, was vanquished by Lord Vishnu and thrust into the netherworld with immense force. This legend highlights the lake’s cultural significance alongside its scientific intrigue.
Known as the ‘Bowl of Mysteries,’ Lonar Lake is surrounded by numerous unanswered questions and speculations. This meteorite enigma has drawn the attention of scientists, astronomers, geologists, ecologists, and even NASA.
The Compass Conundrum
One of Lonar Lake’s most intriguing mysteries is the malfunctioning of compasses near its vicinity. Visitors often find their compass directions either stop working or display significant deviations. This anomaly is attributed to unusual electromagnetic waves interacting with electrical equipment, likely due to the lake’s meteor-impact origin.
Unique Chemical Composition
Scientifically, it’s almost impossible for a lake to be both alkaline and saline simultaneously. Lonar Lake, however, defies this norm. It features two distinct sections that never mix: an outer neutral region and an inner alkaline region, each supporting unique flora and fauna. This extraordinary feature has sparked extensive research by NASA and the Geological Survey of India.
Lunar Parallels
NASA has noted similarities between the crater’s volcanic basalt and the craters on the moon’s surface. The presence of specific rock minerals, such as microbreccias and glass spherules, draws parallels to lunar geology. Additionally, a newly identified bacterial strain at the lake’s site resembles one found on Mars.
The Pink Phenomenon
In 2020, Lonar Lake underwent a dramatic transformation when its water turned pink, baffling observers. The phenomenon prompted government-ordered studies. Some scientists attribute the color change to algae, increased salinity, or a microbe called Halobacteriaceae, known for its pink hue.
Lonar Lake remains a captivating blend of natural wonder and scientific curiosity, drawing visitors and researchers alike to unravel its myriad mysteries.
