A building-sized asteroid or comet strike has carved out the largest fresh impact scar ever documented by NASA on the lunar surface, according to a press release issued by the space agency. The rare collision, which scientists estimate occurs only once every century or less, created the McGetchin-krateret, measuring nearly 222 meters wide and 43 meters deep.
Discovery of the McGetchin Crater by NASA Researchers
The massive impact was uncovered during a routine review of data sent back from an orbiting lunar probe, according to NASA. Researchers determined the event likely happened between April and May 2024. Observations of the site reveal that the violent collision scattered debris, specifically lunar dust, across a six-kilometer area surrounding the new crater, allowing scientists to measure distinct surface temperature differences.
Origins: A Building-Sized Impact Risk
NASA assesses that the scar was forged by an incoming comet or asteroid measuring between three and six stories tall. Data and images collected by the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) document the scale of the event. The LRO has orbited the moon since 2009 and cataloged more than 1,000 impacts, making the McGetchin-krateret the largest recorded by the spacecraft to date.
Did you know? The newly discovered impact site is officially named the McGetchin-krateret, honoring lunar scientist Tom McGetchin, according to NASA’s documentation of the region.
Implications for Future Lunar Rovers and Exploration
While the moon already features countless impact sites, this specific event carries practical significance for upcoming human missions, according to NASA. Surface alterations of this magnitude shift the terrain significantly. Consequently, NASA writes that this can have significance when for example moon buggies are to drive around there.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is the newly discovered McGetchin crater on the moon?
According to NASA, the crater is nearly 222 meters wide and 43 meters deep.
When did the impact happen?
NASA researchers determined that the collision likely occurred between April and May 2024.
What caused the impact scar?
NASA assesses that a comet or asteroid roughly the size of a building with three to six stories created the impact.
How often do impacts of this size occur on the moon?
According to NASA estimates, a collision of this specific caliber happens only once every 100 years or even less frequently.
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