Moon Rock or Asteroid? NASA Tracks 2024 PT5’s Earth Flyby

First detected on August 7, 2024, by the University of Hawaiʻi’s ATLAS telescope in Sutherland, South Africa, asteroid 2024 PT5 has intrigued astronomers with its Earth-like orbit around the Sun. This small asteroid, approximately 33 feet (10 meters) in diameter, poses no threat to our planet.

Orbiting the Sun in a path similar to Earth’s, 2024 PT5 has been a temporary companion, maintaining a safe distance roughly nine times farther than the Moon. Although it has never come close enough to be captured by Earth’s gravity, its unique motion makes it a compelling subject for research. While not classified as a “mini-moon,” its behavior has prompted NASA to use planetary radar to gain further insights.

In January 2025, NASA’s Goldstone Radar tracks 2024 PT5 during its closest approach, five times the Earth-Moon distance. Afterward, the asteroid will drift away around the Sun. Scientists at CNEOS suggest it may be a lunar rock fragment from an ancient impact, though analysis rules out space mission debris.

NASA’s Near-Earth Object Tracking

CNEOS at NASA’s JPL monitors near-Earth object orbits, assesses hazards, and supports the PDCO. Tools like ATLAS and the Goldstone Radar are vital for planetary defense. JPL manages the Deep Space Network, with oversight from NASA’s Space Communications and Navigation program.

Read Original Article: Scitechdaily

Read More: A Unique Alignment of 7 Planets Will Soon Grace the Sky