Moon Asteroid 2024 PT5 : Earth is soon going to get two moons, because an asteroid is going to enter its orbit. Scientists are calling this phenomenon “mini moon”. However, this phenomenon will happen only for a few months and it will not be possible to see it with the naked eye. It can be seen only through special telescopes. This event can be exciting for astronomy lovers.
When will we be able to see the ‘second moon’
This asteroid will come closest to the Earth on 29th September i.e. today and will remain in the Earth’s orbit till 25th November. The distance of this asteroid from the Earth will be greater than the Moon, so there is no risk of it colliding with the Earth. Scientists say that its size is about 11 meters, which will not pose any serious threat to the earth. The name of this asteroid is 2024 PT 5 and it will remain in the Earth’s orbit as a natural satellite of the Earth for about two months. Asteroid 2024 PT5 will remain close to the Earth for some time and under the influence of its gravity will revolve around our planet by November.
Scientists have called it a mini-moon because it meets some essential astronomical criteria, although it is much smaller than the real Moon. Its length is believed to be approximately equal to that of a school bus.
How many ‘moons’ has the Earth seen so far?
Even before this, Earth has received mini moon many times. The first mini moon was seen in 1991. This asteroid was near the Earth’s gravitational field for a long time and as a result its path has changed. However, it cannot be considered a full moon, because it will not make a complete revolution around the Earth. Instead, it will revolve around the Earth in a horseshoe shape for about 55 days. After this it will exit the Earth’s gravitational field.
Also read: