“An interesting little phenomenon:” There’s a ‘mini moon’ circling Earth right now

Whether it be a pet, family member or a friend, there’s warmth in companionship—unless you’re Earth’s new ‘Mini-Moon.’

Described as being approximately 10 metres across, this large space rock joined our celestial neighbour for a chilly dance around the Earth—but it won’t last.

What is the ‘Mini-Moon’?

It’s actually not a moon at all, explains Brett Gladman, professor of astronomy at the University of British Columbia.

“This is an example of what we call a temporary capture,” he told Curiocity.

“We are submersed in a small armada of planet-crossing asteroids… These objects are little fragments of asteroids that are in the main belt that orbit in a donut between Mars and Jupiter.”

According to Gladman, they’ll occasionally collide, resulting in smaller objects being pushed out of the main belt only to get caught in Earth’s orbit.

This particular mass is known as 2024 PT5 and will stick around until November, doing a very non-circular loop around the Earth before going elsewhere.

“It’s, you know, it’s like saying you’re walking through the mall and it’s crowded and some nice person falls into step beside you, and you think they’re interesting, but you don’t call them your wife.”

Should you be worried?

If you’re among those who have seen one too many movies, rest assured.

This object does not pose a threat to our planet, the professor confirmed.

“No one is predicting that this is going to hit the Earth,” he told us.

“Even if it does, it’s so small that it would just burn up high in the atmosphere.”

Will you be able to see the Earth’s Mini-Moon?

Unfortunately, for those without special equipment, the answer is no.

“You will need a rather large telescope to see it.”

“It’s way beyond binoculars. It’s way beyond small telescopes.”

Is that a bummer? Of course, but don’t fret! There are many other space-related events to look forward to, including the Orionid Meteor shower, which peaks on the evening of October 20th.

Either way, this is pretty cool, Canada.

“It’s an interesting little phenomenon, every now and then the Earth gets company.”

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