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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Andrew Griffin

When will the SpaceX rocket crash into the Moon?

  • An abandoned SpaceX rocket is scheduled to crash into the Moon on Wednesday, August 5, at approximately 2:28 AM ET or 7:28 AM UK time.
  • The spacecraft will impact near the Moon’s Einstein Crater at a speed of 5,400 mph, creating an explosion equivalent to three tons of TNT and leaving a crater about 27 meters wide and 5 meters deep.
  • Scientists are eager to study the resulting dust and debris, viewing the collision as a unique opportunity to gather data on the Moon's composition and the behavior of lunar material.
  • The event will be observed by other spacecraft, including NASA ’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter and South Korea’s Danuri, which will capture images before and after the impact.
  • This incident, marking the second accidental rocket crash into the Moon, highlights the growing concern over space debris and its potential risks to future lunar exploration.

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