Earth's second moon prepares to leave: What to know about asteroid 2024 PT5

Asteroid 2024 PT5, which many astronomers have affectionately started to call Earthssecond moon, is not actually a moon in a traditional sense but is instead a near-Earth asteroid that happens to be in a similar orbit around the sun as us. It’s part of the Arjuna group, a class of objects known for their Earth-like orbits and low inclination.

While such objects are not uncommon in near-Earth space, what makes 2024 PT5 special is its slightly larger size. At 33 feet, it’s approximately the size of a school bus, which is a little bigger than the other objects in this orbit and is about nine times farther away from us than the Moon. It’s been traveling with  ]us for a few months now but is getting ready to depart.

Where did it come from?

Astronomers believe that 2024 PT5’s origins lie within the Arjuna asteroid group. These small bodies follow orbits remarkably similar to Earth’s, which makes them prone to close encounters with our planet. However, their small size means they would burn up in our atmosphere if they get too close.

The asteroid’s trajectory and its proximity to Earth’s orbit have fueled speculation that it could be a remnant from an ancient collision involving our Moon. If true, this small meteor would be a fascinating part of the Moon’s geological history.

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Why is it leaving?

The 2024 PT5 neither comes nor goes. It just happens to be on a similar path around the sun but at a slightly different speed, which has caused it to “be in the vicinity” of Earth for several months. As of November 25, 204, it will no longer be close enough to have that status.

Factors such as the asteroid’s velocity and interactions with other gravitational forces, like those from the Sun and Moon, contribute to its overall speed and orbit around the sun. It will likely be in our vicinity again, as it has been many times in the past, with scientists predicting a near-Earth occurrence in 2055.

How can you see it?

Unfortunately, seeing 2024 PT5 is no simple task. At roughly nine times the distance from Earth to the Moon, the asteroid is incredibly faint, making it challenging even for seasoned astronomers. Only large telescopes, typically with a diameter of 30 inches or more, can detect it.

The asteroid’s faint appearance means it will likely remain out of reach for all but professional observatories using highly sensitive instruments.

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