NASA confirms Earth second moon: NASA confirms Earth has a second moon, and it will stay with us until 2083

Earth has received a new cosmic partner, a small asteroid designated as 2025 PN7. NASA confirmed this week that the object, initially found by the University of Hawaii, qualifies as a “quasi-moon” , an uncommon type of celestial body that moves almost similarly in sync with Earth. While not a real moon, it has a similar orbit surrounding the Sun, seeming to shadow our planet as it travels through space. Researchers estimate the asteroid measures 18 to 36 meters wide, approximately the height of a small building, making it small by cosmic standards but noteworthy for Earth’s extended neighborhood.

Not a Moon, but a Companion

Unlike the Moon, which is gravitationally attached to Earth, 2025 PN7 is not confined in orbit. Scientists compare it to “a friendly runner matching your stride on the same track close enough to notice, but never touching.” Its orbit has likely synchronized pace with Earth for nearly 60 years, and if this path remains constant, it could remain nearby until 2083 before getting away into open space. At its nearest point, the asteroid comes within 4 million kilometers, almost ten times farther than the Moon, and at its farthest, it can reach to 17 million kilometers, impacted by the competing gravitational pull of the Sun and neighboring planets.

Discovery Details

The asteroid was initially detected in a routine telescope survey conducted by the University of Hawaii earlier this year. Primarily appearing as a faint dot against the stars, it became clear that the object was moving in similar sync with Earth. Following weeks of examination and analysis, NASA officially confirmed that Earth had received a temporary traveling companion.

Why Quasi-Moons Matter

To date, scientists have confirmed only eight quasi-moons, making all a valuable insight in knowing about the asteroid dynamics and Earth’s gravitational impact in space. Researchers cite that such objects are more than exciting: they refine orbital models, enhance predictions for near-Earth asteroids, and could act as testing grounds for space missions in future. Their proximity and stability make them simpler to reach than most cosmic targets.

FAQs:

1. What is 2025 PN7?
2025 PN7 is a small asteroid that has a trajectory similar to Earth’s orbit. 2. How big is 2025 PN7?
The asteroid is stated to be 18 to 36 meters wide, roughly the size of a small building.