ASPACE-Q 

The Astrophysics,  Space  Exploration and Quantum Computing Group   

 ASPACE-Q 

The Astrophysics,  Space  Exploration and Quantum Computing Group   

In August 2024, scientists observed a small "minimoon" named 2024 PT₅ caught briefly in Earth’s gravity. This space rock, about the size of a car, was spotted by the Hawaiian telescope ATLAS and will stay in Earth’s orbit only temporarily. Researchers are curious about its origins, as it could be a piece of an asteroid or even lunar debris. Studying these minimoons helps scientists better understand the nature and origins of such small, passing objects near Earth.

For more details, check put the article here!

Credit: Bolin, B. et al, preprint arxiv The discovery and characterization of minimoon 2024 PT5