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NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter detects a new 222-meter Moon crater from a once-in-132-years impact

NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter has identified a previously undetected lunar crater roughly twice the length of an American football field, created by a powerful impact about two years ago. Scientists estimate an event of this scale occurs only once every 132 years, offering a rare study opportunity as NASA plans a lunar base.

Discovered 2026-09-16T10:35:10.654023-07:00 | 2026-09-16T10:35:10.654023-07:00

Briefing

What Hype is tracking

The 222-meter crater provides a rare, recently formed record of a major lunar impact—an event scientists estimate occurs only once every 132 years.
Because the impact initially went undetected, the discovery highlights the scientific value of continued orbital monitoring and high-resolution lunar mapping.
The fresh crater offers new data as NASA prepares for future astronaut activity and a planned lunar base.

Reported By

CBS News Associated Press orlandosentinel.com science.nasa.gov NBC News The Independent