UAE Observatory Monitors Falcon 9 Rocket Impact on Moon

Aug 5, 2026

58 min

Aug 5, 2026 18:30

UAE observatory tracks Falcon 9 rocket stage impact on Moon

## Rocket Impact on Lunar Surface

The Al Khatim Astronomical Observatory in Abu Dhabi tracked the impact of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket stage on the Moon. The collision occurred on Wednesday and resulted in the ejection of approximately 1,100 tonnes of lunar soil and rocks. This event posed no threat to Earth.

## Details of the Impact

The Falcon 9 upper stage, identified as 2025-010D, was predicted to hit the Moon at 0634 GMT. This stage originated from a mission launched on January 15, 2025, which carried two lunar landers. After its mission, the rocket stage remained in an elongated orbit influenced by Earth's and the Moon's gravity.

## Observations and Predictions

The observatory monitored the predicted impact site but did not observe any visible flash or ejecta. Scientists had anticipated various outcomes, including a brief flash or a dust cloud. Further analysis from other observatories is awaited to understand the impact better.

## Scientific Significance

The collision excavated about 450 cubic meters of lunar material. Under the Moon's gravity, some debris could have reached heights of up to three kilometers. This event provides valuable data for scientists studying lunar impacts.

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