NASA locates rocket impact site on the Moon

NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter has captured images of a newly formed crater on the Moon, caused by the impact of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket's upper stage. The incident occurred on August 5 when the rocket crashed into the lunar surface, likely due to a combination of solar activity and gravitational forces altering its trajectory.

The newly formed crater measures 18.3 meters in diameter and is less than 3.05 meters deep. Scientists from NASA calculated these dimensions from the images taken by the orbiter, which had to be positioned precisely to capture the impact site. This event underscores the growing concerns over space debris as lunar expeditions become more frequent.

Dimitra Atri, a NASA scientist, emphasized the potential dangers faced by astronauts who may spend extended periods on permanent lunar bases. He warned that both the United States and China are planning such bases, making it crucial to monitor and assess the risks associated with human-induced impacts on the Moon. While the Moon is regularly bombarded by meteors, impacts caused by human activity are relatively rare due to the lack of atmosphere that would otherwise slow down incoming objects.