Haines Structure Seismic Profile Indicating Probable Impact Crater

A single 2D seismic profile reveals a symmetrical subsurface structure spanning approximately 2.5 kilometers in the offshore Canning Basin. The Australian Ocean Data Network hosts this interpretation of a probable complex impact crater within Eocene or Early Oligocene carbonate units. The data was last updated in April 2026.

Use Cases

• Analyze the seismic character of the centrally uplifted basal surface and overlying sagging horizon for impact crater identification.
• Compare the Haines Structure's deformed intervening package with known complex impact craters on Australia's North West Shelf.
• Correlate the structure's seismic horizons to nearby petroleum exploration wells for age determination.
• Model subsurface deformation patterns using the feature's two-dimensional symmetry over 2.5 km.

Strengths

• Interpretation based on a specific 2D seismic profile.
• Structure analyzed for key elements characteristic of known complex impact craters.

Limitations

• Data is limited to a single 2D seismic line, providing no 3D context.
• The impact origin is inferred from seismic character alone, lacking direct evidence like drill-core shock metamorphism.
• Unknown row count and sample data availability.

Provenance

Source

Australian Ocean Data Network

Collection Method

Interpretation of a 2D seismic profile.

Time Range

Eocene or Early Oligocene age.

Freshness

Last updated April 2026.

Geography

Offshore Canning Basin, Western Australia.