Errant SpaceX rocket stage set to smash into the moon at 5,400 mph, seven times the speed of sound — NASA a... - Yahoo
An upper stage of a SpaceX rocket, which delivered lunar landers, is expected to crash into the moon at 5,400 mph several months after its mission ended. Scientists, including NASA and South Korean researchers, are closely observing the impact to study its effects on the lunar surface, using orbiters to capture before-and-after images. This event offers a rare opportunity to observe an object impacting the moon while being monitored.
Why it matters
This event provides a unique opportunity for scientists to study lunar impacts and surface dynamics in detail, contributing to our understanding of the moon's geology and the effects of space debris. The observations could inform future lunar missions and space debris management strategies.
You really shouldn't leave your trash orbiting in space.
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(Image credit: SpaceX/Unsplash ) Copy link Facebook X Whatsapp Reddit Pinterest Flipboard Email Share this article 6 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter The upper stage of a SpaceX rocket that delivered two lunar landers in early 2025 is set to come crashing down on the lunar surface several months after it ended its mission. According to Japan Today , the large piece of rocket debris is expected to hit the moon at an estimated 5,400 mph or 8,690 kph, which is seven times the speed of sound.
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