A massive crater on the moon, larger than the Roman Colosseum, has been uncovered by scientists following a significant impact event that occurred two years ago without immediate detection. Measuring 222 meters across and up to 43 meters deep, this crater stands as the most substantial recent impact crater in the solar system.
The rarity of such a substantial event, estimated to happen once every 132 years, provides valuable insights for NASA as they strive to establish a lunar base for astronauts. The discovery, detailed in two studies published in the journal Science Advances, is described as a statistically uncommon occurrence, offering a unique opportunity for research.
NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) identified the crater on the near side of the moon in May 2024, shortly after its formation from the impact of an asteroid or comet. The strike went unnoticed by ground-based and space telescopes but was eventually spotted by the LRO in August 2025, with confirmation of the discovery coming early this year.
Named after the late Thomas McGetchin, the crater has disturbed over 100 kilometers of the lunar surface, ejecting dust and rocky material at unexpected angles. Mark Robinson, the lead author of one of the studies and chief scientist for the LRO’s cameras at Intuitive Machines, noted the unique characteristics of this impact event.
Another study revealed a seven-kilometer-wide cold spot surrounding the crater, indicating a disturbance in the moon’s surface. Co-author David Paige from the University of California, Los Angeles, likened the impact to a form of gardening, altering the moon’s regolith.
Robinson emphasized the frequent overturning of the moon’s topsoil by ejected material, occurring every 80,000 years, faster than previously believed. This overturning process challenges the notion that the footprints of Apollo moonwalkers will endure indefinitely, as Robinson explained in a statement.
Future steps involve assessing the potential risk of ejected material from the crater impacting NASA’s planned moon base, allowing engineers to design structures that can withstand such impacts effectively.