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Every story in sixty words

Explained in plain English

Why is it hitting the Moon?

This particular rocket part is a leftover from a 2015 mission. It was designed to escape Earth's gravity and deliver a satellite into deep space, but it didn't have enough fuel to return or be steered into a safe disposal orbit. So, it's been tumbling through space for years, eventually crossing paths with the Moon.

Stories that explain this

SpaceX rocket booster to hit the Moon on Wednesday

Related explainers

Is this a problem for the Moon? Why are astronomers interested? Who owns this rocket part? Why hit the moon? How does the Moon affect us? Why is the moon dusty? Why is the Moon important? Why does the Moon turn red?

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