Spent SpaceX Rocket Set to Crash into Moon

The upper stage of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket is expected to crash uncontrollably into the Moon after running out of fuel following the launch of two lunar probes in 2025. The spent rocket stage has drifted through cislunar space for more than a year and is now on course to impact the lunar surface.

Astronomers expect the impact to create a crater about 27m in diameter and eject a large plume of lunar dust that could be visible from Earth with sufficiently powerful telescopes for several minutes.

Scientists say the impact will provide a rare opportunity to test models of how the lunar surface responds to collisions with large objects and to improve understanding of impact dynamics.

The observations are expected to help researchers better understand the properties of lunar regolith and improve planning for future crewed missions to the Moon. Professional and amateur astronomers are also being encouraged to observe the event, as their data could contribute to research on lunar impacts and the effects of space debris.

(mja)