Brief
Satellite image reveals ancient sponge‑like dome feeding Brazil's hot springs
The 20‑kilometre dome, estimated at 600 million years old, captures rainwater that feeds the region's geothermal springs.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Live Science reported that a massive, sponge‑like geological formation in Caldas Novas, Goiás, Brazil, supplies water to nearby hot springs.
What happened
The dome spans about 20 kilometres (12 miles) and is believed to be at least 600 million years old. Satellite imagery from Landsat 9, taken on 19 May 2025, shows the structure’s distinctive shape and its surrounding Cerrado biome, which absorbs rainfall and channels it toward the springs.
What the reports add
Live Science noted the dome’s size, age estimate and the role of the Cerrado in water absorption, linking the formation directly to the region’s geothermal activity.
What was said
"The Caldas Novas dome is around 12 miles (20 kilometers) long and is likely to be at least 600 million years old," Live Science wrote.
How it came about
The discovery stems from Earth‑from‑space observations, a series in which Live Science senior staff writer Harry analyses satellite data to reveal hidden geological features.
Key facts
- The dome in Caldas Novas is about 20 km long. (livescience.com)
- It is estimated to be at least 600 million years old. (livescience.com)
- Landsat 9 captured the image on 19 May 2025. (livescience.com)
- The surrounding Cerrado biome helps the dome collect rainwater that feeds nearby hot springs. (livescience.com)
Sources
- [1] livescience.com — originally reported as “Towering 'sponge' dome in Brazil is the secret source of nearby hot springs — Earth from space”
