An asteroid named 2024 PT5, measuring just 33 feet long, is soon to be captured by Earth’s gravity, creating the appearance of a mini-moon. Though it won’t complete a full revolution around the planet, 2024 PT5 will briefly follow a horseshoe-shaped orbit before continuing its cosmic journey.
2024 PT5’s Unique Orbit Around Earth
The asteroid 2024 PT5 will make its singular orbit starting on September 29, 2024, and will remain in Earth’s gravitational pull for 56 days, until November 25, 2024. Despite its brief capture by Earth’s gravity, it won’t be visible to the naked eye and can only be observed through specialized telescopes.
Why 2024 PT5 Isn’t Technically a Mini-Moon
To be classified as a mini-moon, an asteroid must complete a full revolution around Earth. However, 2024 PT5 will only make half a revolution before it breaks free and continues its journey through space. It was first discovered by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) on August 7, 2024.
Insights from Asteroid Research
Astronomers are excited about the rare capture of 2024 PT5. Federica Spoto, an asteroid dynamics researcher at the Center for Astrophysics, Harvard & Smithsonian, noted that this event could provide valuable insights into the space rocks that frequently pass by Earth. According to Paul Chodas, director of NASA’s Center for Near-Earth Object Studies, the asteroid might even be a piece of lunar ejecta, adding to its scientific intrigue.
Importance of Mini-Moons
Mini-moons, like 2024 PT5, are important to scientists because they can contain valuable materials, including precious metals. When these space rocks are captured by Earth’s gravity, they present opportunities for further study and even potential mining.
