Space rock left big crater on moon during full lunar eclipse

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — 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 meters) 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 centimeters) across and 100 pounds (45 kilograms). The impact energy was equivalent to 1 ½ 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.

The Western Journal has not reviewed this Associated Press story prior to publication. Therefore, it may contain editorial bias or may in some other way not meet our normal editorial standards. It is provided to our readers as a service from The Western Journal.

Truth and Accuracy

Submit a Correction →

* Name

* Email

* Message

* All fields are required.

Success!

We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.

The Associated Press

SummaryMore Biographical InformationRecent PostsContact

The Associated Press is an independent, not-for-profit news cooperative headquartered in New York City. Their teams in over 100 countries tell the world’s stories, from breaking news to investigative reporting. They provide content and services to help engage audiences worldwide, working with companies of all types, from broadcasters to brands. Photo credit: @AP on Twitter

@AP

Facebook

The Associated Press was the first private sector organization in the U.S. to operate on a national scale. Over the past 170 years, they have been first to inform the world of many of history's most important moments, from the assassination of Abraham Lincoln and the bombing of Pearl Harbor to the fall of the Shah of Iran and the death of Pope John Paul.

Today, they operate in 263 locations in more than 100 countries relaying breaking news, covering war and conflict and producing enterprise reports that tell the world's stories.

Location

New York City

* Name

* Email

* Message

* All fields are required.

Success!

At Least 20 Dead After River Ferry Sinks: 'It's a Horrible Day'

US Judge Tosses Lawsuits Against Former Military Commander Accused of War Crimes

Kobe Bryant's Widow Gives Huge Gift to LA Team on Anniversary of His Last Game

Young Girl Dead, Boys 1 and 8 Listed in Critical Condition After Unthinkable US Shooting: 'Not a Random Act of Violence'

Dead Whale Found Washed Up on US Shore - Disturbing Injuries Found on the Massive Animal

See more...