Massive crater found on the Moon

NASA researcher Robert Wagner discovered a 730-foot-wide crater called McGetchin using data from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. It's the largest newly discovered crater in the solar system.

“Scientists estimate that an impact of this magnitude happens on the Moon about once in a century or even longer.”

Impact happened in spring 2024

The crater formed from a comet or asteroid collision in spring 2024. Scientists estimate the object was the size of a building three to six stories high.

Rare event happens once a century

Impacts of this magnitude on the Moon occur roughly once every hundred years or even longer, making McGetchin's discovery exceptionally rare and valuable for study.

Spotted by distinctive bright spot

The crater appeared as a large bright spot circled by a dark halo in the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter's scans. Wagner noticed it during a new scan of the Moon's surface.

Real-time study reveals lunar geology

Studying McGetchin's formation in real time helps scientists understand how impacts shape the Moon's geology. This knowledge is crucial for planning future crewed missions.

No atmosphere means no protection

Unlike Earth, the Moon has virtually no atmosphere to slow down or burn up space debris before impact. This makes lunar impacts more severe and craters more pristine.

US and China plan crewed missions

Both the United States and China are planning crewed missions to the Moon. Understanding McGetchin's formation will help prepare astronauts for the lunar environment.