New research proposes that impact melted most of both worlds and led to the formation of the moon
Artist’s impression of Theia colliding with a young Earth 4.5bn years ago, an impact that scientists say ended up making the Earth larger.Artist’s impression of Theia colliding with a young Earth 4.5bn years ago, an impact that scientists say ended up making the Earth larger.
While many scientists find the giant impact scenario compelling, the search has continued for evidence to support the theory, not least any hallmarks of a violent collision that could still be found today. According to the simulations, the collision would have melted the upper half of the Earth’s mantle, allowing a hefty chunk of Theia, perhaps 10%, to penetrate further into the planet and gradually sink towards the core.
It may take a healthy supply of moon rocks for scientists to work out if the buried blobs are indeed remnants of an ancient Theia. Those rocks might be forthcoming in the years ahead as space agencies push on with their plans to establish a long-term presence on the moon in preparation for later trips to Mars.