Moon Preservation: What if a Spaceshuttle or Missile Hit It?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the potential impact of a collision or explosion on the moon. It is noted that the distance between Earth and the moon varies, but this would not significantly affect the outcome of such an event. The participants also mention the moon's size and our limited ability to cause significant damage to it. The use of a nuclear bomb in a vacuum is also mentioned, with a reference to the Starfish Prime incident.
  • #1
h.g.Whiz
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If a spaceshuttle collided with the moon what would happen?
What if a missile hit it?
If I am not mistaken the distance between our Earth and the moon varies, so let's say the impact occurs when the moon's position is at its farthest normal distance from earth.
 
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  • #2
The distance doesn't vary by much and such an impact would make little difference. The moon is pretty big.
 
  • #3
what about a nuclear bomb
 
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  • #4
Let me rephrase my previous answer: the moon is really big. And as tough as we think we are, we don't really have the capability to inflict the kind of destructive influence people think we can.
 
  • #5
Does anybody have an idea what happens when a 50 megaton bomb explodes in a vacuum, besides the fact that it would be silent?
 

1. How likely is it for a spaceship or missile to hit the moon?

The chances of a spaceship or missile hitting the moon are very slim. Spacecrafts and missiles are carefully planned and programmed to avoid any collisions with celestial bodies, including the moon.

2. What would happen if a spaceship or missile did hit the moon?

If a spaceship or missile did hit the moon, it would most likely create a crater on the surface. The size and impact of the crater would depend on the size and speed of the object, but it is unlikely to cause any major damage to the moon.

3. Would the moon's orbit be affected if it was hit by a spaceship or missile?

The moon's orbit is unlikely to be significantly affected by a spaceship or missile impact. The moon is relatively large and has a strong gravitational force, so it would not be easily knocked off its orbit by a small object.

4. Can we prevent a spaceship or missile from hitting the moon?

As mentioned earlier, spacecrafts and missiles are carefully programmed to avoid any collisions with celestial bodies. However, in the unlikely event of a malfunction, there are systems in place to track and redirect any potential collisions with the moon.

5. What is being done to preserve the moon?

Currently, there are no active efforts to preserve the moon as it is a naturally occurring celestial body. However, there are international agreements and regulations in place to ensure that space exploration and activities do not cause any harm or damage to the moon or other celestial bodies.

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