NASA Identifies Largest-Ever Fresh Impact Crater on Moon, Named McGeechin

A NASA scientist has identified a large, recently formed impact crater on the Moon’s surface—a rare event scientists estimate occurs no more than once per century or longer.

Crater dimensions and formation timeline

The crater, designated “McGeechin,” measures approximately 222 meters in width and is estimated to have formed in spring 2024. According to NASA, it resulted from an impact by either a comet or asteroid. Researchers estimate the impacting body was roughly the size of a building between three and six stories tall.

NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO), which has been mapping the lunar surface since 2009, captured images revealing the crater as a “large bright spot surrounded by a dark halo.” This distinct visual signature enabled researcher Robert Wagner to identify and analyze the feature during his review of new LRO imagery.

Imaging and public release

NASA shared an image of the crater via its official X account, “NASA Solar System.” The agency confirmed the LRO detected the feature and noted that McGeechin’s width exceeds the combined length of two football fields. Its depth is 141 feet.

Although the crater has existed for several years, its discovery occurred only recently—after Wagner observed it in newly processed LRO photographs.

Scientific significance

A study published Wednesday in the journal *Science Advances* states that McGeechin is the largest fresh impact crater yet discovered anywhere in the solar system.

Scientists say studying such recently formed craters improves understanding of lunar geology and may inform preparations for future crewed missions planned by both the United States and China.