NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter has identified the largest modern-day crater in our solar system, formed between April 11 and May 22, 2024. An asteroid or comet, roughly the size of a three- to six-story building, struck the lunar surface. While the impact went unobserved in real time, NASA scientist Robert Wagner detected the change in October 2025 by comparing before and after images.

The crater, officially named after scientist Tom Mc Getchin, measures 728 feet wide and 141 feet deep. Scientists estimate impacts of this magnitude occur only once every 132 years. Images captured by the LRO's narrow-angle camera in December 2025 confirm the site.

In a notable finding, researchers discovered a 4-mile-wide surrounding area that is about 16 degrees Fahrenheit cooler at night. This temperature difference results from the impact disturbing the regolith, making the surface less dense and less able to retain heat. These cooler spots may affect how rover wheels interact with the lunar surface near new craters.

Given the rarity of the event, further studies on the Mc Getchin crater are expected.