SMRTR Science & EngineeringJun 9, 2025Interesting Engineering

Soviet-era gas crater ‘Door to Hell’ is finally dying down after 50 years of burning

SMRTR summary

Turkmenistan's iconic 'Door to Hell', a fiery natural gas crater burning for over 50 years, is finally dying down. Scientists report the flames have weakened significantly, with the blaze now reduced to a third of its original size. The 230-foot-wide crater, accidentally ignited by Soviet geologists in 1971, has been a popular tourist attraction. This development could lead to reduced natural gas loss and environmental impact in the region.

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