SpaceX Falcon 9 upper stage set to impact moon's near side August 5

5 articles · Updated · Space.com · Apr 29

The 2025-010D upper stage, left over from the January 2025 Blue Ghost Mission 1 launch, will hit the moon near its limb, possibly visible from Earth.
Astronomer Bill Gray, who tracks such objects, notes the impact poses no danger but highlights concerns over space debris disposal practices.
While the event may offer minor scientific interest, experts caution that future lunar activity could raise risks from uncontrolled hardware impacts.

How will scientists confirm the rocket's impact and study the new lunar crater?

What specific technologies can prevent future missions from leaving more junk in cislunar space?

What laws govern space junk hitting the Moon, and who is held responsible?

Could this accidental rocket crash actually provide a valuable scientific opportunity for researchers?

Is our growing debris on the Moon just trash or are we creating future historical artifacts?