Earth to gain a new moon

September 27, 2024

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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.

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