The Darvaza gas crater, also known as the “Door to Hell”, is a large natural gas crater in the Karakum Desert in Turkmenistan. It is about 260 kilometers (160 mi) north of Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan. The crater is about 70 meters (230 ft) in diameter and 20 meters (66 ft) deep.

The crater was formed in 1971 when Soviet engineers were drilling for natural gas. The ground beneath the drilling rig collapsed, creating a large hole. The engineers, fearing that the hole would release poisonous gas, set it on fire. The gas has been burning ever since.

The Darvaza gas crater is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can camp near the crater and watch the flames dance in the night sky. Some people even dare to climb down into the crater.

The Darvaza gas crater is a unique and fascinating place. It is a reminder of the power of nature and the ingenuity of humans.

Here are some additional facts about the Darvaza gas crater:

• The crater is so large that it can be seen from space.
• The temperature at the bottom of the crater can reach up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
• The crater is home to a variety of animals, including snakes, lizards, and scorpions.
• The Darvaza gas crater is a national landmark of Turkmenistan.

In 2014, Turkmenistan’s president, Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov, ordered the crater to be closed. He said that the crater was a waste of natural gas and that it was a danger to tourists. However, the crater remains open and is still a popular tourist destination.

The Darvaza gas crater is a unique and fascinating place. It is a reminder of the power of nature and the ingenuity of humans.