Three craters were created in the Negev when cracks in the mountain peaks eroded over a long period of time, eventually opening into gigantic gorges and exposing age- old geological structures. The three are Machtesh HaGadol (Big Crater) Machtesh HaKatan(Small Crater) and Machtesh Ramon (Ramon Crater).
The Mitspe Ramon Observatory and Visitors Center is located on the edge of the Ramon crater and offers information about the Negev Mountains, the Ramon Reserve, and the 'craters'.
It's recommended to begin the visit here, at the Visitors Center where one can learn about the special geography and geology of the area from large models. Through the picture window from the center's rooftop observation deck there is a breathtaking view to the crater.
