3 sources·Science

Earth Says Goodbye to its Temporary 'Mini Moon' as Scientists Prepare for Future Encounters

An asteroid known as 2024 PT5, classified as a 'mini moon', is leaving Earth after a brief visit, with plans for future observations by NASA.

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Updated: Nov 24th, 2024, 9:51 AM ET

Summary

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Earth is set to part ways with the asteroid 2024 PT5, which exhibited 'mini moon' behavior over the past two months. The 33-foot rock is expected to return for a close encounter in January 2025. NASA plans to use radar technology to study this object, believed to be a fragment of the Moon. The asteroid will maintain a safe distance from Earth, continuing its orbit around the sun, and won't return until 2055. Additionally, the landscape of near-Earth asteroids is evolving, with discoveries leading to better tracking and knowledge of potential impacts.

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Earth Says Goodbye to its Temporary 'Mini Moon' as Scientists Prepare for Future Encounters - Pano News