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.

Article written by Milli Banbury

This article was written using AI as an assistive tool for research and writing.

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Learning Options

Recall Questions

Thinking questions

Digital Thinking

Welcome to the school library. Please return borrowed books on time so other students can use them. Keep noise levels low, especially near the reading corner. If you need help finding a book, ask the librarian rather than moving books from the shelves yourself. Food and drink are not permitted in the library, and devices must be on silent. Students who wish to study after school may use the back tables until 4.30 p.m.

Which option best summarises the purpose of this notice?

The notice explains the library rules students must follow and how they may use the space. Students may study after school, but only until 4.30 p.m. and with devices on silent. Borrowed books should be returned on time because other students might want to read them. The library has a reading corner, back tables, and a librarian who can help students find books.