Space rock left big crater on moon during full lunar eclipse

Space rock left big crater on moon during full lunar eclipse | iNFOnews.ca
FILE - This image from video provided by Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles shows an impact flash on the moon, bottom left, during the lunar eclipse which started on Sunday evening, Jan. 20, 2019. On Tuesday, April 30, 2019, scientists reported the meteoroid hit the moon at 38,000 mph (61,000 kph), carving out a crater nearly 50 miles (15 meters) across. It was the first impact flash ever observed during a lunar eclipse. Griffith Observatory via AP

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A space rock left a big crater on the moon during January's total lunar eclipse.

Spanish scientists reported Tuesday the meteoroid hit the moon at 38,000 mph (61,000 kph), carving out a crater nearly 50 feet (15 metres) across. It was the first impact flash observed during a lunar eclipse.

The scientists — who operate a lunar impact detection system using eight telescopes in Spain — believe the object was a comet fragment up to 2 feet (60 centimetres) across and 100 pounds (45 kilograms). The impact energy was equivalent to 1 1/2 tons of TNT.

Astrophysicist Jose Maria Madiedo of the University of Huelva says it was "really exciting" to catch the brief flash, after many tries during eclipses.

The findings are in the Royal Astronomical Society's Monthly Notices.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

Create a free account

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.

Related Articles