Don't Miss Out! Earth's 'Second Moon' Departs Soon – Find Out When!

Since September 29, 2023, our moon has had a surprising little companion – a tiny asteroid named 2024 PT5. This celestial object was identified by NASA’s Asteroid Terrestrial-Impact Last Alert System just last month.

Asteroid 2024 PT5, originally from the asteroid belt that encircles the sun, made its way into Earth’s orbit due to our planet’s gravitational allure. Researchers have dubbed this event a “two-month mini-moon” experience, but don't get too attached – it's set to leave us soon.

When Can You Expect It to Go?

Mark your calendars: this mini-moon will bid farewell on November 25, 2023. However, its exit won't be as straightforward as you might think. After departing from our orbit, the asteroid will linger nearby, making its closest approach to Earth on January 9, 2025.

So, why all the buzz about this "mini-moon"? Dr. Carlos de la Fuente Marcos explains that these temporary satellites are classified differently than typical space debris. Unlike regular non-Earth objects that only briefly pass by us, 2024 PT5 will complete a full orbit around our planet, making it a unique addition to our cosmic neighborhood.

In Dr. Marcos’s metaphor, while the moon would be a paying customer in a store, asteroids like 2024 PT5 are more like window shoppers, coming around but not making permanent purchases.

Can You Spot It?

If you're eager to catch a glimpse of this mini-moon, you might want to manage your expectations. Unfortunately, 2024 PT5 is too distant to be seen with the naked eye. Even standard telescopes and binoculars won't suffice in this case.

To successfully observe this object, you'll need access to significantly powerful telescopes, ideally a setup with at least a 30-inch diameter and specialized detectors such as CCD or CMOS cameras. So unless you're equipped with professional-grade equipment, seeing 2024 PT5 may be off the table.

Still, there has been no shortage of awe-inspiring astronomical events lately. Just last week, we were treated to a stunning supermoon and a breathtaking comet sighting the month prior.

Don't let this unique opportunity pass you by! Keep your eyes to the skies and stay tuned for updates on 2024 PT5. Time is running out!