Fan Favorite | The Carancas Curse
Summary
In September 2007, a meteorite struck the Peruvian village of Carancas, creating a crater that released toxic arsenic vapor and sickened over 200 residents. While locals initially feared a curse or missile attack, geologist Luisa Macedo identified the cause as pre-existing arsenic contamination in the groundwater, which the impact’s shockwave vaporized. Professor Peter Schultz later explained how the fragile chondrite meteorite survived atmospheric entry, confirming the source of the danger. The episode concludes with the community’s recovery and improved water safety measures.
Topics discussed
Cold open: The mysterious crater in Peru
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Show intro and Killer Psyche promo
Gregorio witnesses the meteorite impact
Investigating the crater and reporting to police
Villagers gather and speculate on the cause
Mass sickness and fear of radiation
Livestock begin bleeding and falling ill
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Hospital crisis and the mayor's plan
Professor Peter Schultz investigates the anomaly
Town hall: Shaman and geologist explain findings
The scientific puzzle of the meteorite's heat
Resolution: Arsenic vapor and long-term safety
Outro and credits
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