Now Reading: SpaceX Falcon 9 stage believed to crash into Moon
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SpaceX Falcon 9 stage believed to crash into Moon
A spent upper stage from a SpaceX Falcon 9 is believed to have struck the Moon on Wednesday at about 8,700 kmph, after travelling through space for months. The roughly 14-metre section…
The Story in Brief
A spent upper stage from a SpaceX Falcon 9 is believed to have struck the Moon on Wednesday at about 8,700 kmph, after travelling through space for months. The roughly 14-metre section launched two lunar landers in January 2025 and was left in orbit after completing its job. The suspected impact occurred near the Einstein crater, but scientists are waiting for proof from telescopes and lunar spacecraft.
NASA said the collision poses no danger to Earth. South Korea’s Danuri orbiter and NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter may help locate a new crater by comparing before-and-after images. The impact could help researchers study lunar craters, dust and debris. The Hindu Times reports SpaceX and NASA are discussing ways to prevent similar incidents.
The Indian Opinion
Claims that this is an immediate danger to Earth are exaggerated, while calling it proof of reckless space policy is premature. The impact remains suspected until images confirm the crater and its location. Yet the episode cannot be dismissed as harmless clutter: the Moon is estimated to have about 3,000 human-made objects weighing 190 tonnes. The practical test is whether future missions publish clear disposal plans and tracking data.
Sources (3): timesofindia.indiatimes.com, hindustantimes.com, hindustantimes.com (2)
This story was synthesised by AI from the 3 sources linked above.
Updated: this story now draws on 3 sources.
