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An unusual astronomical event is about to occur as Earth is reportedly about to get its second moon – a small asteroid named 2024 PT5. This small asteroid will orbit the planet for about two months, from September 29 to November 25, before escaping gravity.
Here’s everything you need to know
According to the American Astronomical Society, 2024 PT5 is predicted to enter orbit on September 29 and depart on November 25.
BBC quoted astronomer Dr. Jennifer Millard as saying, it will not completely revolve around our planet, its orbit will change, it will just be turned a little by our planet and then it will continue on its merry way.
According to research notes from the American Astronomical Society, 2024 PT5 will be Earth’s temporary ‘mini-moon’.
2024 PT5 is not visible with the naked eye, binoculars, or standard household telescopes.
It can be detected using professional equipment due to its small size and dull, rocky surface, making it suitable for observation by advanced astronomical instruments.
SpaceX’s Falcon rocket launch
SpaceX launched a reduced two-man crew to the International Space Station (ISS) on Saturday, carrying supplies and two empty seats for Starliner astronauts waiting to return home in February after an unplanned eight-and-a-half-month stay in orbit. CBS News reported.
CBS News said, “A Falcon rocket carrying two astronauts and two empty seats took off from Florida on Saturday to return Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams to Earth. Wilmore and Williams were on a flight from June to June 15 because of problems with the Boeing Starliner. Stranded in space.” Said in a post on X.
According to CBS News, the launch was delayed two days due to high winds, rain and clouds associated with Hurricane Helene. Finally, the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket ignited and lifted off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station’s Pad 40 at 1:17 p.m. EDT, following a north-easterly trajectory directly aligned with the ISS’s orbital plane.
(with inputs from agencies)
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