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ArchiveLesson #98Science

Oldest Meteorite Strike Found in Australia

Scientists in Australia have discovered evidence of the world's oldest meteorite strike, dating back three billion years, in the Pilbara region.

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Standard version (B1-B2)

Standard: natural English

Researchers from Curtin University in Australia have uncovered of the oldest strike on Earth, which occurred three billion years ago in the Pilbara region. They studied unique features called shatter cones in the North Pole Dome to establish its age. This discovery provides valuable insights into the violent processes that shaped the early Earth and is considered a find in geology.

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Narration includes the headline and summary.

Adapted from The Guardian, 24 June 2026, and rewritten at three levels by Newslish. Newslish is not affiliated with the source. Read the original.

Key vocabulary

  • meteorite

    A piece of rock or metal from space that lands on Earth.

    “A meteorite struck the Earth three billion years ago.”

  • crater

    A large hole in the ground caused by an explosion or impact.

    “The North Pole Dome crater is very old.”

  • geological

    Related to the study of the Earth and its processes.

    “The geological features in the area are significant.”

  • evidence

    Information or signs that show something is true.

    “The scientists found evidence of the meteorite strike.”

  • significant

    Important or meaningful.

    “This discovery is considered significant in geology.”

Quick quiz

01How old is the meteorite strike discovered in Australia?

02What geological feature did researchers analyze to date the impact?

03Where is the North Pole Dome crater located?

04What was previously considered the oldest crater before this discovery?

Answered 0 of 4

Discussion

What do you think the discovery of this meteorite strike means for our understanding of Earth's history?