Scientists say that Earth is about to get a second moon to orbit it. This wonder of the universe will happen during autumn this year. In fact, it is likely that the Earth’s gravity will temporarily trap a small asteroid in its orbit, causing it to become a ‘second moon’ orbiting the Earth.
Scientists believe that this could be possible on September 29 and thus there will be not one but two moons in Earth’s orbit for about two months. After two months, the asteroid will break free from Earth’s gravity and move towards other parts of the Milky Way. Experts say that such space rocks do not pose any threat to Earth.
Scientists have named this asteroid ‘2024 PT5’. It belongs to the Arjuna asteroid belt, whose rocks move in Earth-like orbits.
Often some of these asteroids come very close to our Earth. Their proximity reaches 2.8 million miles (4.5 million kilometers).
Scientists expect something similar to happen this week, causing a small asteroid to orbit Earth for two months.
How can it be seen?
Sadly, the second moon will be so small and dim that you’ll need a professional telescope to see it.
Astronomer and host of the Awesome Astronomy podcast, Dr. Jennifer Millard, told the BBC that the asteroid will enter Earth’s orbit on September 29 and is expected to leave Earth’s orbit on November 25.
“It can be seen with a professional telescope,” says Dr. Millard. You can find fascinating images online of a dot speeding past the stars.
Will Earth ever get another moon again?
This is not the first time that mini moons have occurred and they have been seen many times before. It is believed that many moons have come and gone in the past but they did not get enough attention.
Some small moons have recurred, such as an asteroid named ‘2022 NX1’ that became Earth’s minimoon again in 2022 after 1981.
If you can’t see this scene, don’t worry. Scientists have predicted that 2024PT5 will once again orbit the Earth in 2055.
