Newly Discovered Asteroid 2024 PT5 Becomes Earth’s Temporary Mini-Moon

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Starting Sept. 29, the Earth will have a temporary second “mini moon.”

A new asteroid, named 2024 PT5, is set to briefly orbit the planet, marking a rare celestial event. Discovered in August, this asteroid is notable for its size and temporary orbital presence with the earth, earning it the informal title of a "mini moon."

Approximately the size of a school bus, 2024 PT5 will orbit Earth from Sept.29 to Nov. 24. Although it will not maintain a stable orbit, its close proximity – about 1.5 million kilometers away – places it at roughly four times the average distance between Earth and the Moon.

“This mini moon is particularly interesting for its size – it’s one of the largest ones. But it’s not a rare event,” said Barbara Castanheira Endl, Ph.D., assistant professor of physics at Baylor University. 

Other mini moons, including 1991 VG, 2022 NX1, 2006 RH120 and 2020 CD3 have been observed throughout the years.

“These objects are very faint and we can only see them by the light they reflect,” Castanheira Endl said. “It’s possible that an asteroid of the size of a dishwasher is orbiting our planet at any given time and we don’t even notice it.”

The discovery of temporary mini moons like 2024 PT5 contributes to our understanding of asteroid behavior and the early formation of the solar system. Asteroids such as 2024 PT5 are thought to be remnants from the solar system's creation, offering scientists valuable insights into its composition and history.

Unfortunately, 2024 PT5 will be to faint to see without the aid of a large telescope. For those hoping to catch a glimpse, a minimum of a 30-inch telescope is required.

Despite its close pass with Earth, there is no risk of collision between Earth and 2024 PT5, either during this encounter or in the future. The asteroid, which has likely orbited Earth in the past, is expected to return again in 2055.

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