In a recent study published in The Planetary Science Journal, aerospace and mechanical engineers from the University of Arizona, California Institute of Technology, Project Pluto, and the Planetary Science Institute have uncovered compelling evidence suggesting that the moon impactor known as WE0913A was, in fact, a Chinese booster rocket with an unidentified object attached to its side. The researchers meticulously tracked the object's trajectory before it slammed into the lunar surface, shedding light on its origin and intriguing characteristics.

The mysterious impact took place on March 4, 2022, when an unidentified object crash-landed on the moon. Initially, there were speculations that the object might be the upper stage of a Falcon 9 rocket. However, further investigations demonstrated that this theory did not hold, leading the researchers to conclude that the unidentified object was, in fact, a Chinese booster rocket. The impact left a double crater on the moon's surface, indicating that the impactor had distinct properties that set it apart from others.

Interestingly, the research team had been tracking the WE0913A impactor for an astounding seven years before its ultimate collision with the moon. This extensive tracking allowed the researchers to trace its path and identify it as a booster rocket for the Chang'e 5-T1 mission—an integral part of China's series of lunar exploration missions aimed at testing the feasibility of retrieving moon rock samples.

Delving deeper into their analysis, the research team found that the booster rocket exhibited an unusual behavior. Comparing its light curve with other boosters, they noticed a lack of the typical wobbling associated with such rockets. Instead, the booster appeared to tumble in an orderly manner. The researchers attribute this peculiar behavior to an additional object attached to the opposite side of the rocket shell, countering the weight distribution created by the engine.

These findings are further supported by the observation that the unknown attachment was responsible for the creation of the second crater upon impact. Remarkably, no official statement has been made by Chinese authorities regarding the nature of the booster or its connection to the additional object.

The study, conducted by Tanner Campbell et al., sheds new light on the WE0913A moon impactor and enhances our understanding of lunar missions. By unraveling the origins and unique characteristics of this Chinese booster rocket, researchers have taken a significant step towards a comprehensive analysis of space debris and its implications for future space exploration endeavors.

Further exploration and investigation into the WE0913A impactor could provide valuable insights into Chinese space initiatives and the technologically advanced methods employed by their engineers. As the mysteries surrounding this lunar event continue to be unraveled, the study serves as a reminder of the ongoing pursuit of knowledge and our fascination with the wonders beyond our own planet.

Reference:
Campbell, T., et al. (2023). Physical Characterization of Moon Impactor WE0913A. The Planetary Science Journal, DOI: 10.3847/PSJ/acffb8.