NASA\u2019s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) has successfully captured\nimages of a new crater formed by the impact of a Falcon 9 rocket upper\nstage on the Moon\u2019s surface. The imaging provides new scientific detail\nand insights for researchers.<\/p>\n
Based on image data captured by the LRO camera (LROC) six days after\nthe impact, the crater is estimated to be approximately 18 metres (60\nfeet) wide and less than 3 metres (10 feet) deep. The images were\nobtained as LRO passed over the impact site during its routine orbit\naround the Moon.<\/p>\n
Before-and-after observations show a distinctive V-shaped ejecta\npattern on the southern side of the crater. This pattern is considered\nconsistent with the impact of a natural or artificial object striking\nthe lunar surface at a low angle.<\/p>\n
LRO imaging was carried out in stages every 117 minutes, matching the\ntime required for one orbit of the spacecraft around the Moon. The\nseries of photos from the Narrow Angle Camera precisely recorded changes\nin the physical structure of the lunar soil before and after the\nimpact.<\/p>\n
The research team leading the LROC camera observations said the\nfinding provides a rare opportunity to study the dynamics of\nhigh-velocity impacts on the lunar surface. The new crater also offers\nvaluable data on how subsurface lunar material is ejected during an\nimpact.<\/p>\n
Since its launch, NASA\u2019s LRO has continuously monitored and mapped\nthe lunar surface in detail. Monitoring of new craters, whether formed\nby natural meteoroid impacts or remnants of human-made objects,\ncontinues to support scientific understanding and preparations for\nfuture space exploration missions.<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/nasas-lro-captures-crater-from-falcon-9-rocket-impact-on-the-moon-1787115064", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }