Danuri Captures First Moon Crash Images After SpaceX Rocket Hit at 5,400 mph
Updated
Updated · The Associated Press · Aug 6
Danuri Captures First Moon Crash Images After SpaceX Rocket Hit at 5,400 mph
3 articles · Updated · The Associated Press · Aug 6
Summary
Danuri released the first before-and-after images of the moon site where a stray SpaceX Falcon 9 upper stage slammed into the surface on Wednesday, showing a darkened impact area and a newly carved crater.
5,400 mph was the rocket stage's impact speed after solar activity and gravity pushed it onto an accidental collision course, according to SpaceX.
Multiple passes over the site let the South Korean orbiter document dust and rock blasted across the terrain soon after the crash.
NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter is expected to fly over the area next week, adding a second look at the aftermath of the 2025-launched stage's impact.