SpaceX rocket upper stage to impact moon on August 5

A 4,500kg SpaceX Falcon 9 upper stage is on course to crash into the Moon on August 5, 2026.

The rocket segment launched on January 15, 2025, carrying Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost (which landed successfully) and an ispace lander (which was wrecked).

Space experts say the crash could have been avoided if the stage had been maneuvered into a stable orbit around the Sun.

The impact speed is predicted at 8,700 kph, with energy equivalent to three tons of TNT.

The crash will create a crater about 90 feet wide and 16 feet deep on the Moon's near side.