The upper stage of Falcon 9 will collide with the Moon
In August 2026, the upper stage of a Falcon 9 rocket will collide with the Moon, creating a crater and scattering debris. Astronomers plan to observe and document this event using telescopes and orbital spacecraft.
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In the coming days, the upper stage of SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket is expected to collide with the surface of the Moon. This event will be available for observation and study by specialists, and under favorable conditions, it may even be visible from Earth.
SpaceX conducts numerous launches each year for various space missions. In January 2025, the company sent two landers to the Moon. After completing its primary mission, the rocket's upper stage remained in orbit around the Moon.
The upper stage is approximately 12 meters long, about 4 meters wide, and weighs around 4,000 kilograms. The collision with the Moon is anticipated to occur on August 5, 2026, at a speed of roughly 8,700 km/h. The impact could create a crater up to 30 meters in diameter and about 5 meters deep, as well as scatter a significant amount of debris across the lunar surface.
To observe this phenomenon, one will need to be in a location with minimal light pollution and clear skies, and use a telescope to capture the flash from the collision. Astronomers plan to monitor the event to study similar occurrences and their consequences. Additionally, the Korea Pathfinder Lunar Orbiter may be able to record the moment of impact using its onboard instruments.