NASA specialists have recorded the impact of an asteroid on the lunar surface. The event was documented using the agency's observation equipment, life.ru reports.
Unlike Earth, where most space objects burn up upon passing through the dense layers of the atmosphere, the Moon lacks a protective gas shell. Therefore, asteroids and meteoroids approaching the Earth's satellite reach its surface unimpeded.
Each such collision results in the formation of a new impact crater on the lunar surface. Studying such events helps scientists better understand processes occurring in the solar system and estimate the frequency of collisions between celestial bodies and celestial objects.
NASA regularly monitors the lunar surface as part of programs to study Earth's natural satellite and potential threats from space objects.
