Askja Crater or Askja, which literally translates to ‘box’ or ‘caldera’ in Icelandic, is the biggest volcanic crater in the Dyngjufjöll volcanic formation in the central-eastern region of Iceland. Askja, which is the tallest peak in the Dyngjufjöll, is situated towards the north of Vatnajökull and is surrounded by Odadhahraun, which is a lava field covering 3681 km2.
Askja Crater or Askja, which literally translates to ‘box’ or ‘caldera’ in Icelandic, is the biggest volcanic crater in the Dyngjufjöll volcanic formation in the central-eastern region of Iceland. Askja, which is the tallest peak in the Dyngjufjöll, is situated towards the north of Vatnajökull and is surrounded by Odadhahraun, which is a lava field covering 3681 km2.
The caved-in cauldron took shape when a lava chamber discharged during a volcanic eruption, which caused the roof to give way. Geologists point out that Askja comprises three interlinked cauldrons. Iceland’s deepest lake, Öskjuvatn or Lake Askja, formed in 1875, which is 217 metres deep, with an area of 11 km2 , is located nearby. Viti Volcano, which houses a natural Blue Lagoon geothermal lake that is 60 metres deep, with amazing azure waters, also lies in this region. The 50 km2 crater was created towards the last stages of the Ice Age in an ash eruption which resulted in the caving-in of the magma chamber roof. A round imprint soon was filled with lava from eruptions close to the rim. Askja’s rim is around 1300 to 1500 metres above sea level.
Askja is now a well-established tourist attraction, which is open during the summer months and has basic facilities for hikers and visitors, including two mountain huts and a campsite at Dreki. It is said the region was also used by NASA for its Apollo Programme training to gear-up astronauts for lunar missions. In fact, the Astronaut Monument in Husavik displays the names of the 32 astronauts who took part in the programme.
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