Wayward SpaceX rocket slammed into the moon as predicted, scientists say
A discarded SpaceX rocket stage has impacted the moon as predicted by scientists after drifting in space for a year. Astronomers confirmed the collision by observing a debris plume of sodium and lithium using a telescope in Chile.
Why it matters
The event underscores the growing problem of space debris and the environmental impact of lunar exploration missions.
<p>A SpaceX rocket that launched a pair of lunar landers <a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/08/01/discarded-spacex-rocket-on-high-speed-collision-course-with-the-moon/" target="_blank">slammed into the moon</a> as predicted overnight after drifting off course for the past year, scientists reported.</p> <p>Although no one observed the actual 8700km/h collision, a telescope in Chile spotted what astronomers have identified as the debris plume resulting from the crash. Space tracking experts said it was inevitable that the leftover rocket segment ploughed into the moon.</p> <p>It’s the latest instance of lunar litter, a problem that many fear could worsen as the US and China race to put astronauts on the moon.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in