New study reveals moon is 40 million years older than believed

TL;DR Summary
A recent analysis of lunar dirt brought back by the final Apollo mission in 1972 has revealed that the moon is 4.46 billion years old, approximately 40 million years older than previously believed. Researchers from The Field Museum of Chicago determined that the moon originated from a Mars-sized object that collided with Earth and never left its orbit. By studying lunar crystals, scientists were able to establish the age of the moon and gain insights into its formation. Understanding the moon's role in stabilizing Earth's rotational axis and influencing tides is crucial for comprehending our natural system.
- Lunar crystals reveal moon is 40M years older than we thought: study New York Post
- The moon may be 40 million years older than previously thought Reuters
- Rock collected by Apollo 17 astronauts reveals moon’s true age CNN
- Rock collected by Apollo 17 astronauts reveals moon's true age ABC 7 Chicago
- Lunar rock samples suggest moon is older than previously thought Engadget
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