The Earth is upgrading with a second moon

  • Context: High School 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Frabjous
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Asteroid Earth Moon
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The Earth is currently experiencing the temporary presence of a mini-moon, measuring only 11 meters in diameter. This mini-moon's orbit is not a complete circle, making its stay brief and less significant compared to other celestial bodies. Observers anticipate the opportunity to spot it in December, particularly as it passes near galaxies M81 and M82. The discussion also highlights the availability of asteroid samples for purchase, emphasizing the accessibility of space materials for study.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of celestial mechanics and orbital dynamics
  • Familiarity with astronomical observation techniques
  • Knowledge of asteroid classification and characteristics
  • Awareness of space-related commerce, such as asteroid sample sales
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the orbital characteristics of mini-moons and their impact on Earth
  • Learn about the techniques for observing distant celestial objects, including magnitude calculations
  • Explore the process of asteroid sample collection and the implications for scientific research
  • Investigate the history and future of J002E3 and its return trajectory
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, space enthusiasts, educators, and anyone interested in the dynamics of celestial bodies and the commercialization of space materials.

Astronomy news on Phys.org
How is the orbit different from Cruitne?
 
It's more temporary, not even a full circle. - Disappointing.

Also, it is only 11 meters. Not even worth sending anything out to blow it up.
 
We sent probes far out in space to study asteroids, only to get one in our own backyard. We should snag it for study, but easier said than done.
 
Reply
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: ohwilleke
Huh? Bits of asteroids land on Earth every day. You can even order them out of a catalog.
 
Reply
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: Astronuc, davenn and russ_watters
Andy Resnick said:
I may have a chance at spotting it (magnitude 20-ish) in December
You'll be set for J002E3 when it returns. It gets to 16.
 
Vanadium 50 said:
You'll be set for J002E3 when it returns. It gets to 16.
Who knows what I'll be imaging with 20 years from now.... :)
 
Is that when it comes back? I guessed 2035, which is no better a calculation than 2002 + (2002-1969).
 
  • #10
Vanadium 50 said:
Bits of asteroids land on Earth every day. You can even order them out of a catalog.
For $65 plus shipping, you can get a chunk of an asteroid delivered to your door by Friday. Not only do we know the parent asteroid, we know the crater it came from.
 
Reply
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: Astronuc and davenn
  • #11
Vanadium 50 said:
For $65 plus shipping, you can get a chunk of an asteroid delivered to your door by Friday. Not only do we know the parent asteroid, we know the crater it came from.
Good thing you didn't post a link there, V50. I'm guessing this is your new side hustle... (probably in cahoots with @davenn :smile: )
 
Reply
  • Haha
Likes   Reactions: davenn
  • #12
I didn't even name the asteroid, although it is easy enough to guess. It's the one where there is a crater where the southern hemisphere used to be.
 
  • #13
The Earth is upgrading with a second moon

Algr said:
It's more temporary, not even a full circle. - Disappointing.

More like, "The Earth is flirting with a second moon".
 
Reply
  • Haha
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: davenn and Frabjous
  • #14
Right now I don't have the time on my hands, but if I did I would photoshop a meme based on that couple in the street and the guy turning round to get an eyeful of another young lady.
 

Similar threads

High School Saturn's 145 Moons: The Latest Discoveries and What Sets Them Apart
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
5K
High School Asteroid 2024 RW1 - entered Earth's atmosphere over Luzon, Philippines
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
3K
Undergrad Resemblances between moon surface and earth mantle
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
High School Asteroid 2024 BX1 entered Earth's atmosphere over Germany 21 Jan 2024
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Undergrad How Big of an Object Orbiting Closer to the Sun Than Earth Could Be Overlooked?
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
4K
High School Massive Football Field-Sized Asteroid Comes Close to Earth
  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
4K
Undergrad Does the barycenter of the Earth-Moon system change?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Asteroid 2004 BL86 and its small moon
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Undergrad Tidal effects on Earth's rotation and moon's orbit
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
4K
Undergrad Mysterious Agent Blows Up Moon: Can Earth Survive?
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
4K