Tonight, whereas most of India sleeps, the Earth will welcome a short lived ‘mini moon’ with a celestial twist linked to India’s Mahabharata. Dubbed “2024 PT5“, this newly found area rock is about 10 meters in diameter and can orbit Earth for the following 53 days earlier than returning to the far reaches of our photo voltaic system.
From September 29 to November 25, “2024 PT5” will make its temporary go to, capturing the eye of stargazers and area fanatics alike. However don’t anticipate to identify it with the bare eye—this tiny, uninteresting rock requires specialised gear for viewing.
Why Can’t We See It?
“2024 PT5” is 350,000 occasions smaller than our Moon, whose diameter is 3,476 kilometers. Its small dimension means it received’t be seen and not using a telescope of at the very least 30 inches in diameter and superior detection instruments, in accordance with astronomers. Easy binoculars or residence telescopes received’t suffice for this cosmic customer. Particular telescopes will detect the mini moon after 1:30 AM, although the dimness makes it a problem even for seasoned stargazers.
Is Earth in Hazard?
No want to fret! Consultants at ISRO, India’s area company, are monitoring the mini moon by way of their Community for House Objects Monitoring and Evaluation (NETRA), guaranteeing it received’t collide with Earth. Dr. Anil Kumar, head of NETRA, reassures that “2024 PT5” is a part of a protected orbit and poses no risk.
The Story Behind ‘Mini Moons’
Objects like “2024 PT5” that briefly orbit Earth should not totally uncommon. Astronomers Carlos de la Fuente Marcos and Raúl de la Fuente Marcos clarify that Close to-Earth Objects (NEOs) typically cross near our planet, generally getting into short-term orbits. Often known as ‘mini moons,’ these objects keep for a couple of days or months earlier than persevering with their journey by way of area. Previous mini moons have been noticed in 1997, 2013, and 2018.
The Arjuna Connection
What makes “2024 PT5” much more fascinating is its connection to the Arjuna Asteroid Group, a singular group of near-Earth asteroids with resonant orbits. These asteroids are named after the legendary warrior Arjuna from the epic Mahabharata, identified for his bravery, knowledge, and swift arrows—reflecting the swift and unpredictable nature of those celestial objects.
The “Arjuna” group was first recognized when astronomer Robert H. McNaught found the asteroid “1991 VG” in Australia. Impressed by Arjuna’s character, McNaught named the group after the hero, and the Worldwide Astronomical Union (IAU) formally permitted the title.
Catch a Glimpse
To see this mini moon, you’ll want professional-grade gear. Based on Marcos, “2024 PT5” could be noticed with telescopes that includes a 30-inch diameter or bigger, outfitted with CCD or CMOS detectors. With out such instruments, catching a glimpse of this fleeting customer can be practically inconceivable.
Trying Forward
The “2024 PT5” was found by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Final Alert System (ATLAS), funded by NASA, on August 7, 2024. Since then, each NASA and ISRO have been monitoring its orbit. This mini moon will full its journey and disappear by November 25, 2024, after its temporary but fascinating go to to our planet’s orbit.
Whether or not you’re knowledgeable astronomer or just curious concerning the wonders of area, “2024 PT5” affords a singular alternative to marvel on the mysteries of the cosmos—even when it’s from a distance. So, set your alarms and goal your telescopes skyward, as a result of this mini moon received’t be sticking round for lengthy!
