Astronomers confirm it: very soon the Earth will have two moons. Exact date and duration of this strange phenomenon

In a finding that appears to be taken out of a science fiction movie, astronomers have discovered that the Earth will temporarily capture a new "minimoon." Called 2024 PT5, it will be trapped by terrestrial gravity from September to November 2024.

The newly discovered asteroid 2024 PT5 follows a trajectory that will lead it to become an Earth mini-satellite for a short period before continuing its journey around the Sun. This phenomenon, although temporary, is a significant event in the study of objects near the Earth.

Researchers Carlos and Raúl de la Fuente Marcos, from the Complutense University of Madrid, have been responsible for this discovery. Using observational data and mathematical models, they have determined that 2024 PT5 will follow a horseshoe-shaped orbit around the Earth.

These types of temporary catches are not completely new. In 2006, the 2006 asteroid RH120 was captured by Earth for almost a year, and more recently, in 2020, asteroid 2020 CD3 also became a mini-moon for a brief period.

When and why will it happen?

The asteroid 2024 PT5 has orbital characteristics that make it particularly interesting. Its semi-major axis is approximately 1,012 astronomical units, with a very low eccentricity of 0.021, which indicates an almost circular orbit. In addition, its inclination is only 1.52 degrees, which places it in an orbit similar to that of the Earth.

During its brief stay as a minimoon, 2024 PT5 will provide valuable data on the dynamics of asteroids and gravitational interaction with Earth. Scientists hope to use this information to improve orbit prediction models and better understand how these objects can be captured and released by Earth's gravity.

The capture of minimoons is a phenomenon that occurs due to the complex gravitational dance between Earth and nearby asteroids. When an asteroid gets close enough to Earth, it can be temporarily caught in an orbit around our planet before being ejected back into interplanetary space.

The 2024 PT5 study will help to better understand the dynamics of these objects and develop strategies for planetary defense, in case a potentially dangerous asteroid gets too close to Earth. In addition, they could be future targets for space exploration missions.

International collaboration and observation

Asteroid 2024 PT5 was discovered on August 7, 2024 by the Asteroid Earth Impact Last Alert System, observing with the instrument located in Sutherland, South Africa. Its detection and monitoring was possible thanks to international collaboration and the use of advanced telescopes.

Observations from multiple facilities were used to track the asteroid's orbit and predict its temporary capture by Earth, highlighting the importance of continuous surveillance of the sky.

Near-Earth asteroids are numerous and, although most do not pose an immediate threat, their study is crucial for our understanding of the solar system and the protection of our planet.

As 2024 PT5 approaches Earth, astronomers will be on the lookout to capture detailed images and data of its passage. This event will be a unique opportunity to observe a mini-moon in action and learn more about these mysterious space travelers.

Implications and future

Events like this near, in which the small body acquires negative geocentric energy for weeks or a few months, are relatively frequent, and several events occur per decade. Episodes of prolonged capture, on the other hand, are rare, and the Earth experiences one every ten or twenty years or so.

The cause of the expulsion of these objects from Earth is due to the gravitational force of the Sun. Once 2024 PT5 has fulfilled its role as a minimoon, it will return to an orbit centered on the Sun, remaining as part of the Arjuna asteroid belt.

Unfortunately, it will not be visible to most sky observers. It is too small and dim for telescopes and amateur binoculars. You need a telescope with a diameter of at least 30 inches and a CCD or CMOS detector, because the human eye alone is not enough.

The researchers intend to make spectroscopic and photometric observations of 2024 PT5 to better understand its nature. For now, get ready for an unparalleled celestial show and stay tuned for updates on this exciting astronomical event.