Will a Satellite Crash into the Moon Tonight?

In summary, a spacecraft called SMART-1 is set to crash into the moon this weekend, with a predicted impact time of either 8:30 PM on Saturday or 1:30 AM on Sunday. The uncertainty is due to the spacecraft not having a precise target and the possibility of encountering terrain obstacles. It is unlikely to be visible from amateur telescopes. As of now, there are no reports of the crash or its visibility. Analysis of photos of the crash can be found on the website of the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope.
  • #1
DaveC426913
Gold Member
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Has anyone heard of this?

http://sci.esa.int/science-e/www/object/index.cfm?fobjectid=39937"
Jeez, I'm trying to decipher the website to figure out when to look.
 
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  • #2
Here is some additional information.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/space/20060831/sc_space/ spacecraft settosmackthemoonthisweekend
 
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  • #3
And here, too;
http://space.com/scienceastronomy/060831_smart-1_crash.html

They say the impact will either be at about 8:30 saturday night, or 1:30 Sunday morning. The uncertainty is because it is not a precise, targetted crash. They have narrowed down the time of impact to one of two orbits. It will probably hit on Sunday morning, but it might hit on the orbit before that. The orbits take about 5 hours, so the two possible times of impact are 5 hrs apart.
 
  • #4
I'd be awfully surprised if it would be visible from amateur telescopes, but I'd still try if it were clear here...
 
  • #5
LURCH said:
The uncertainty is because it is not a precise, targetted crash.
More accurately, they don't have a thorough understanding of the terrain. If it encounters a hill on the first orbit then that'll be the orbit it impacts on.
 
  • #6
Anybody heard anyhting since the big night? I've been looking and I can't find a reort on when it hit, or if anyone could see it.
 
  • #8
Ah, closure. Thanks, J.
 
  • #9
Some photo analysis:

http://www.cfht.hawaii.edu/News/Smart1/"
 
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Related to Will a Satellite Crash into the Moon Tonight?

1. What is the purpose of sending a satellite to impact the Moon?

The purpose of sending a satellite to impact the Moon is to study its composition, structure, and history. By intentionally crashing a satellite into the Moon, scientists can collect data and analyze the debris to gain a better understanding of our closest celestial neighbor.

2. How does a satellite impact the Moon?

A satellite impacts the Moon by intentionally crashing into its surface at a high speed. This impact creates a crater and sends debris flying into the surrounding area. Scientists can measure the size and depth of the crater, as well as analyze the composition of the debris, to learn more about the Moon.

3. What type of satellite is being used for the impact?

The type of satellite being used for the impact can vary, but it is typically a small, low-cost spacecraft specifically designed for this purpose. These satellites may have instruments or cameras onboard to collect data before impact and may also have a special coating to protect them from the extreme conditions of impact.

4. Will the satellite impact affect the Moon's orbit or cause any damage?

The impact of a satellite on the Moon will not significantly affect its orbit or cause any damage. The size of the satellite and the impact crater will be relatively small compared to the size of the Moon. However, the impact may create observable changes in the Moon's surface, which can provide valuable insights to scientists.

5. What can we learn from the satellite's impact on the Moon?

The satellite's impact on the Moon can provide valuable information about the Moon's composition, structure, and history. By studying the impact crater and debris, scientists can learn about the Moon's surface and subsurface, as well as its geological processes. This information can also help us better understand the formation and evolution of the Moon and other rocky bodies in our solar system.

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