Giant Crater Larger Than Roman Colosseum Discovered on the Moon
Scientists have discovered a massive crater on the lunar surface, larger than the Roman Colosseum, resulting from a hidden impact that occurred in May 2024.
Detected by NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, the steep-walled giant crater, larger than the Roman Colosseum, has been recorded as the largest impact trace recently formed in the solar system.
Details and Dimensions of the Discovery
With a width of approximately 221 meters and a depth reaching up to 43 meters, the crater holds the distinction of being the largest known impact crater recently opened in the solar system.
Observation Process and Timing
NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter spotted this structure, which formed on the near side of the Moon in May 2024. The moment of impact was not detected live by telescopes on Earth or in space.
Naming of the Crater
Named after the late Thomas McGetchin, former director of the Lunar and Planetary Institute in Houston, the crater is three times larger than the previous record holder found by the spacecraft a decade ago.
Scientific Research and Results
In two separate studies published in the journal Science Advances, it is estimated that such large-scale events occur every 132 years, making this an statistically rare observation.
Future Lunar Base Studies
Researchers aim to calculate the risk of ejected crater material striking NASA's planned lunar base, helping engineers make structures more durable.