
Lunar Impact: SpaceX’s spent rocket could be visible from Earth this August
A spent SpaceX Falcon 9 upper stage from a Jan. 15, 2025 CLPS mission is expected to crash into the Moon near Einstein Crater on Aug. 5, 2026. Observing it from Earth could be possible but is uncertain; predictions have a margin of minutes and kilometers. The impact could eject lunar soil and create a sunlit plume. NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter will pass over the impact site about a week before and after to help locate it, and citizen scientists can join the Impact Flash! program to spot any brief flashes from their telescopes or backyard gear.











