Mon Sep 23 18:23:16 UTC 2024: ## Earth to Briefly Gain a “Mini-Moon” This Fall
A small asteroid, nicknamed a “mini-moon,” is set to enter Earth’s orbit for a short period this fall. The asteroid, officially named 2024 PT5, is about the size of a school bus and will be captured by Earth’s gravity from September 29th to November 25th.
While not posing any threat to Earth, 2024 PT5 is too faint to be seen with the naked eye or binoculars. Even spotting it with a telescope will be challenging, requiring powerful equipment and dark skies.
“Mini-moons” like 2024 PT5 are temporary natural satellites that briefly become trapped by Earth’s gravity. 2024 PT5 will follow a horseshoe-like path around Earth before returning to its solar orbit. It will make its closest approach to Earth on January 8, 2025, but still remain millions of miles away.
This is not the first time Earth has had a mini-moon. Another asteroid, 2022 NX1, briefly entered Earth’s orbit in 2022 and is expected to return in 2051.
Although challenging to observe, the appearance of 2024 PT5 is a reminder of the dynamic nature of space and the constant movement of objects in our solar system. Astronomers and amateur skywatchers alike are excited to track the mini-moon’s brief journey around Earth.
First Piper 