New Research Suggests the Moon Is Older Than Previously Estimated

Scientists propose the Moon formed over 4.5 billion years ago, challenging long-held theories about its origin and evolution.

A study published in Nature suggests the Moon formed around 4.51 to 4.53 billion years ago, over 100 million years earlier than prior estimates.
The revised timeline is based on analysis of lunar zircon crystals, which indicate the Moon's surface underwent a massive remelting event 4.35 billion years ago.
Researchers propose that tidal heating caused by Earth's gravitational pull may have super-heated and reshaped the Moon's surface as it moved away from Earth.
This earlier formation aligns with the chaotic early Solar System, addressing discrepancies in previous models about the timing of the Moon's creation.
The findings could help explain mysteries such as the Moon's lower metal content and the scarcity of large impact basins on its surface.