Earth to Temporarily Gain a 'Mini-Moon' Starting September 29
Asteroid 2024 PT5 will orbit Earth for nearly two months before returning to its path around the Sun.
- Asteroid 2024 PT5, discovered on August 7, will become a temporary satellite of Earth from September 29 to November 25.
- The asteroid, roughly 10 meters in diameter, originates from the Arjuna asteroid belt, which follows Earth-like orbits around the Sun.
- 2024 PT5 will follow a horseshoe-shaped path around Earth but will not complete a full orbit.
- This mini-moon will be too dim to be seen with the naked eye or typical amateur telescopes, requiring professional-grade equipment for observation.
- After departing Earth's orbit, the asteroid will make its closest approach again in January 2025 and is expected to return in 2055.