NASA to Release Moon Crater Photos from SpaceX Rocket Impact

Aug 6, 2026

68 min

Aug 6, 2026 06:30

When will NASA release photos of the Moon crater left by SpaceX's rocket impact?

## SpaceX Rocket Hits the Moon

On August 5, 2026, a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket's upper stage collided with the Moon, creating a significant impact. The rocket, launched in January 2025, had been in orbit for 18 months before striking the lunar surface at high speed.

## Observations and Impact Details

The Al Khatim Astronomical Observatory in Abu Dhabi tracked the event, estimating that the collision displaced approximately 1,100 tonnes of lunar material. Despite the significant impact, no visible flash or ejecta was observed during the collision.

## Awaiting NASA's Imagery

NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, which has been mapping the Moon since 2009, will provide before-and-after images of the impact site. These images are expected to be released between mid and late August. The Korea Pathfinder Lunar Orbiter may also capture images of the site.

## Challenges in Capturing the Impact

The impact occurred on the Moon's lit side, making it difficult to detect any flash. Additionally, capturing images requires the orbiter to pass over the site at the right time and conditions, followed by image processing and comparison with existing data.

## Scientific Significance

The anticipated images will offer valuable insights into the Moon's surface. The controlled nature of this impact, with known variables such as speed and mass, provides a unique opportunity for scientific study, unlike natural impacts where these factors are often unknown.

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