Moon is on Collision Course with Earth, Say Scientists

Eventually the Moon and Earth will collide in an event that will be catastrophic for both celestial bodies.

Currently, the Moon is actually moving away from the Earth at an average rate of 3.8 centimetres a year.However, experts are warning that the lunar satellite will eventually hurtle towards Earth.

As a result of tidal friction, the way that the Moon's gravitational pull tugs on our oceans, what causes tides - the Moon will slowly begin to move Earth-bound.

Astronomer Jason Barnes says: 'Eventually, the Moon would get so close that it would spiral inward, dissipating its orbital kinetic energy in a spectacular collision and merger with the Earth.'

However, the scientist adds that this is not likely to happen for another 65 billion years.

By that point the Sun will have reached its red giant phase the end of its life where it will expand, engulfing most of the solar system, which is due to happen in the next five or six billion years.

Scientists doubt very much that the Earth and Moon will survive this phase, with both either being burnt to a crisp or propelled outwards into the universe.