Scientists: Earth to Gain a 'Second Moon' This Weekend

NASA scientists predict Earth will capture a temporary "second moon" this weekend

The "mini-moon" is a tiny asteroid named 2024 PT5, orbiting the sun as part of the Arjuna belt near Earth.

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Unlike our 4-billion-year companion moon, this asteroid is a temporary visitor, departing before year's end.

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According to NASA's data, the capture starts on September 29th and ends on November 25th.

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Though exciting, Earth capturing asteroids is quite common, with short captures happening several times a decade.

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Unlike a true moon, 2024 PT5 won't fully orbit Earth, behaving more like a "window shopper" in celestial terms.

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Despite the "second moon" title, 2024 PT5 is too small and faint for naked-eye viewing.

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Professional astronomers with powerful telescopes might capture images of this temporary alignment.

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