A SpaceX rocket has veered off course and is set to collide with the Moon, potentially creating a visible flash from Earth. The rocket’s upper stage, comparable in size to a five-story building, will impact the Moon on Wednesday, forming a crater and ejecting dust and debris.
Originally launched by SpaceX last year for a joint US-Japanese mission, the Falcon 9 rocket was carrying lunar landers and scientific instruments. The discarded segment, measuring about 40 feet and weighing around 10,000 pounds, is predicted to strike the Moon at a speed of approximately 5,400mph, according to space-tracking expert Bill Gray.
While the collision itself may not be observable from Earth, astronomers suggest that the impact flash, lasting less than a second, could be seen through powerful telescopes. Additionally, the resulting plume of dust and debris may extend several miles above the lunar surface, remaining visible through telescopes for an extended period.
Astronomer Bill Gray, who identified the impending collision, mentioned the possibility of witnessing the impact flash and ejected rocks. Dr. Matt Bothwell, a public astronomer at the University of Cambridge, indicated that individuals with advanced telescopes might detect a flash emanating from the Moon’s surface.
Observers in the eastern US, Canada, and parts of South America are expected to have the best viewing opportunities. Although concerns are minimal regarding this specific space debris, experts highlight the increasing hazard posed by the accumulation of objects in orbit.
This incident marks the second unintentional lunar collision involving a discarded rocket, following a Chinese rocket segment’s impact in 2022. Scientists are keen to assess the impact’s implications for future astronaut missions. While the impact is unlikely to be visible from Earth due to its size, it is expected to create a visible crater for spacecraft.
Retired astrophysicist Jonathan McDowell emphasized the importance of preventing similar chaotic rocket orbits in future lunar missions. The impact, though inconsequential this time, underscores the need for careful space debris management as human presence on the Moon expands.
