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Space Rock Left Big Crater on Moon During Full Lunar Eclipse

by Associated Press

   CAPE CANAVERAL, FLORIDA --

   A space rock left a massive 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 ever observed during a
   lunar eclipse.

   The scientists -- who operate a lunar impact detection system using
   eight telescopes in Spain -- believe the incoming object was a comet
   fragment up to 2 feet (60 centimeters) across and 100 pounds (45
   kilograms). The impact energy was equivalent to 1 { tons of TNT.

   Astrophysicist Jose Maria Madiedo of the University of Huelva says it
   was "really exciting'' to observe the event, after many unsuccessful
   tries.

   The findings appear in the Royal Astronomical Society's Monthly
   Notices.