Earth's moon could have formed in just 5 hours after giant impact

Approximately 4.5 billion years ago, a single event dramatically altered Earth’s trajectory, possibly creating its moon within roughly five hours. This cataclysmic moment involved a colossal collision between Earth and a Mars-sized object, initially dubbed Theia. Scientists believe this impact generated immense heat and debris that rapidly coalesced under gravitational forces. The resulting material formed the Moon, presenting immediate challenges to early Earth's stability. Researchers are continuing to refine models of this pivotal event, seeking greater precision regarding the precise timing and dynamics of the lunar formation.