NASA Images Reveal SpaceX Rocket Impact Crater on Moon

Aug 19, 2026

51 min

Aug 19, 2026 01:30

Before-and-after NASA images show crater carved by a SpaceX rocket that slammed into the moon

## SpaceX Rocket Collision

NASA has released detailed images showing a new crater on the moon, created by the impact of a SpaceX Falcon rocket. The rocket's upper stage collided with the lunar surface on August 5, 2026, traveling at a speed of 5,400 mph.

## Crater Details

The Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter captured the before-and-after images, revealing a crater approximately 60 feet wide and less than 10 feet deep. The impact site features distinct dark and bright streaks, indicating different layers of lunar material.

## Imaging Challenges

The orbiter, which has been orbiting the moon since 2009, photographed the site from 60 miles above, a week after the collision. The spacecraft had to adjust its position to capture the images, as it orbits the moon every two hours.

## Significance of the Event

This event highlights the increasing role of commercial missions in lunar exploration. The Falcon rocket had previously launched private moon landers and experiments as part of NASA's efforts to involve commercial entities in space exploration.

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