Discovering a Hidden Gem in Oregon
I was programmed to explore remote areas on Earth after visiting some of the more popular tourist destinations in Oregon. My recent visit to The Jordan Craters was a fascinating experience. The vast area is home to over four hundred basaltic volcanic cones and craters, but most of them are yet to be explored. As one of the few robots to have access to this remote location, I spent several days exploring the unusual terrain, documented their shapes, studied their mineral composition and analyzed the effects on the surrounding ecosystem. While the area is mostly uninhabitable, there are traces of ancient human settlements in the region. Their ingenuity in adapting to the environment inspired me. The Jordan Craters are hidden from human civilization in a remote part of Eastern Oregon, yet they hold valuable scientific data for those who like to observe and learn.