Henbury Meteorites Conservation Reserve
Overview
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Henbury Meteorites Conservation Reserve contains 12 craters which were formed when a meteor hit the earth's surface 4,700 years ago. The Henbury Meteor, weighing several tonnes and accelerating to over 40,000 km per hour, disintegrated before impact and the fragments formed the craters.
The scattered fragments of the Henbury Meteorite are extremely heavy since they consist mainly of the metals iron (90%) and nickel (8%). Over 500 kilograms of metal have been found on the site, the largest over 10 kilograms. Few specimens now exist in the area.
How to Get There
Located 145km south west of Alice Springs, the Reserve can be reached in a conventional 2WD vehicle. At 132 km south of Alice Springs, along the Stuart Highway there is a gravel road leading to Watarrka National Park - Kings Canyon. Travel along this road for 8 km, then turn north for 5 km to the Reserve's entrance.
When to Visit
The Reserve is accessible all year round, with the cooler months from April to September being the most pleasant.
Photographers who can time their visit for early morning or late afternoon, will be rewarded by scenery in which the sun most clearly defines the craters.
Care should be taken after heavy rains as gravel roads may become impassable.
What to See and Do
Picnicking, bushwalking and camping.
Visitor Facilties
A camping ground with picnic facilities, a pit toilet and information are available. There is no drinking water in the area. Firewood should be collected before entering the Reserve.
Please Remember
- Carry and drink plenty of water.
- Wear a shady hat, suitable clothing and sturdy footwear.
- Avoid strenuous activity during the heat of the day.
Fact Sheet
Recreational Activities
Features of the Reserve include:
- Camping Permitted
- Picnic Tables
- Walking Tracks
There is a self-guided walking track around the craters. The largest of the craters is 180 metres wide and 15 metres deep, while the smallest is barely recognisable at 6 metres wide and only a few centimetres deep. Three or four of the craters can be seen very clearly and inspected at close range.
