Scientists shed new light on satellite’s formation by studying lunar dust from Apollo 17 mission
It has shone down upon the dinosaurs, inspired the greatest poets, and been explored by intrepid astronauts. But despite its enduring presence, quite when the moon came into being has remained a matter of debate. Now researchers say they have the answer, revealing the Earth’s satellite is 40m years older than previously thought.
Around 100m years after the formation of the solar system, when the planets had already formed, it is thought a Mars-size body struck Earth, ejecting a large mass of material that eventually became the moon. The energy involved in the impact meant its surface was initially molten, but as the lunar magma ocean cooled the material solidified.
Dr Romain Tartèse of the University of Manchester, who was not involved in the research, welcomed the study.
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