Asteroid 2024 PT5, a small object about 33 feet wide (10 meters) that passed near Earth last year, has provided new insights into its origin. Discovered by NASA’s Sutherland Telescope in August 2024, this asteroid doesn’t pose a threat to Earth but appears to have originated close to our planet due to similarities in its orbit with Earth’s.
New evidence suggests it may have been ejected from the Moon after a large impact. Spectral analysis showed it’s rich in silicate minerals, unlike typical asteroids but similar to lunar rocks. This hints at its possible connection to the Moon’s surface.
The asteroid’s unique motion, influenced by solar radiation pressure, also supports its natural origin rather than being space debris. This motion differs from that of artificial objects like old rockets, ruling out space junk claims.
The discovery doubles the number of asteroids believed to originate from the Moon, opening new avenues for studying planetary impacts and lunar geology. By linking these asteroids to specific craters on Earth or the Moon, scientists may learn more about how impact events shape planetary surfaces.
This story highlights how studying near-Earth objects like 2024 PT5 can expand our understanding of the Moon and broader cosmic processes. The project is supported by NASA’s planetary defense initiatives, aiming to enhance asteroid tracking and safety for future space exploration.
Source: https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/study-finds-earths-small-asteroid-visitor-likely-chunk-of-moon-rock