Scientists Say Earth Will Temporarily Have a Second Moon

Scientists have said that our main moon will have some company before this new companion returns to its home in the asteroid belt that follows our planet and the sun.

We’re getting another moon – sort of.

Earth will have a “mini-moon” in addition to its usual lunar companion for about two months starting from September 29, according to a recent study published in the Research Notes of the American Astronomical Society.

The study explains that the second moon is actually an asteroid from the Arjuna group, named 2024 PT5. Scientists say it will accompany our main moon before heading back to its home in the asteroid belt that follows Earth and the sun.

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The team behind this study specializes in mini-moon events and noted that this isn’t the first time something like this has happened. In fact, the study mentioned that it occurs frequently, but the objects usually don’t stay long.

The study pointed out two other notable instances of a mini-moon: one in 1981 and another in 2022.

But if you were hoping to catch a glimpse of this mini-moon, good luck!

In an interview with Space.com, the study’s lead author said that the mini-moon won’t be visible to the naked eye or even to amateur telescopes. You’d need a professional telescope (or a friend with one) to see it for yourself.