Earth to gain a new moon

Share to Google Classroom

Earth will soon have a new temporary moon, scientists say.

On September 29, 2024, an asteroid called 2024 PT5 will be captured by Earth’s gravity and orbit the planet for nearly two months. This asteroid, about 11 meters wide, will stay in orbit until November 25, before returning to its usual path around the Sun.

2024 PT5 is a type of near-Earth asteroid known as an “Arjuna asteroid,” which occasionally comes close to our planet. Though it will be Earth’s temporary “mini-moon,” it won’t be visible to the naked eye because it’s too faint. Only powerful telescopes will be able to spot it.

Scientists often observe such objects as they get pulled into Earth’s orbit, creating these short-lived moons. After departing in November, 2024 PT5 will pass near Earth again on January 9, 2025.

1
Every year on 5 November, colourful fireworks light up the...
1
In a move to help hospitals care for more patients,...
1
Beachgoers in Santa Cruz, California, are being warned about an...
1
A year after the world’s biggest tractor sculpture was revealed...
1
Jade Henderson, a 32-year-old bodybuilder from Australia, has broken a...

World & National News

1
New Zealand will soon be home to the world’s largest...
1
In a fun and furry competition across Texas State Parks,...
1
Egypt has officially opened the Grand Egyptian Museum near the...
1
The start of the Great Walk season in New Zealand’s...
1
This year, Dictionary.com surprised everyone by choosing “6-7” as its...