The Moon's Biggest Crater Tells a New Story - Universe Today
Scientists have discovered new insights into the Moon’s oldest and biggest crater, the South Pole–Aitken Basin, which spans over 2,500 kilometers. Recent data from lunar orbiters suggest that this massive impact site holds vital clues about the Moon’s early formation and internal structure. Researchers found unusual materials buried deep beneath the surface, likely remnants from the Moon’s mantle. These findings challenge earlier theories that the impact only affected the outer crust. The analysis shows that this collision may have reshaped the Moon’s interior, influencing its volcanic and tectonic activity over billions of years. Understanding this crater not only reveals how the Moon evolved but also provides valuable information about the early history of our solar system. This discovery highlights how modern space missions continue to unlock ancient mysteries hidden beneath the lunar surface.
The Key points
- South Pole–Aitken Basin is the Moon’s largest crater.
- It measures over 2,500 kilometers across.
- Recent lunar orbiter data revealed new subsurface materials.
- Evidence points to rocks from the Moon’s mantle.
- The impact deeply altered the Moon’s internal layers.
- Findings challenge previous crust-only impact theories.
- The crater formed over 4 billion years ago.
- It influenced later volcanic and tectonic activity.
- Researchers used gravity and mineral mapping techniques.
- The study enhances understanding of lunar and solar system history.
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