New study refines conditions of the Earth-Theia impact that formed the Moon

Researchers at Southwest Research Institute and the University of Arizona modeled the giant impact that created the Moon, finding the outcome depends heavily on Theia's temperature and strength. Under some conditions the Moon could have formed in about five hours, while its age is estimated at 40–120 million years after the solar system's birth.

• The Moon may have formed in roughly five hours after the impact
• Lunar age is estimated at 40–120 million years after solar system formation
• Theia's temperature and strength change the impact scenario
• Isotope similarities and the Moon's small iron core support the impact theory