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Asteroid 2024 PT5, detected by NASA’s ATLAS system in August 2024, has been identified as a near-Earth object with Earth-like orbit. Measuring about 10 meters wide, it appears to have originated from the Moon’s surface after a massive impact. Dr. Teddy Kareta of Lowell Observatory explains that the asteroid was rich in silicate minerals, similar to those found on Earth but not typically associated with asteroids—suggesting lunar origins.
Kareta notes that the asteroid’s spectrum didn’t match any known asteroid types, aligning more closely with lunar rock samples. This discovery doubles the number of near-Earth objects potentially linked to the Moon. Dr. Kareta also highlights a 2016 asteroid named Kamo’oalewa, which shared similar characteristics, emphasizing the growing interest in understanding these unique celestial bodies.
The findings imply that studying asteroids like 2024 PT5 could offer insights into the Moon’s history and the processes that shape it. As sensitivity to smaller asteroids increases, more potential lunar materials may be discovered, opening new avenues for scientific exploration both on Earth and in space. This collaboration bridges asteroid research with Lunar studies, offering a rare opportunity for planetary scientists.
The study was published in *Astrophysical Journal Letters* and is authored by Theodore Kareta et al., 2025.
Source: https://www.sci.news/astronomy/earths-recent-mini-moon-lunar-origin-13604.html