The Earth is upgrading with a second moon

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    Asteroid Earth Moon
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the recent discovery of a temporary mini-moon orbiting Earth, exploring its characteristics, potential for study, and comparisons to other celestial objects. Participants engage in a mix of observational astronomy, speculation about future sightings, and commentary on the significance of such a phenomenon.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that the mini-moon is temporary and does not complete a full orbit, expressing disappointment about its transient nature.
  • There are suggestions that the mini-moon could be studied, although participants acknowledge the challenges involved in doing so.
  • One participant mentions the availability of asteroid fragments on Earth, highlighting that such materials can be purchased, which leads to a discussion about the accessibility of asteroid samples.
  • Speculation arises about the visibility of the mini-moon and its trajectory, with participants expressing hopes of spotting it during specific astronomical events.
  • Humor is introduced with a meme suggestion related to the idea of Earth having a second moon, reflecting a light-hearted take on the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express mixed feelings about the significance of the mini-moon, with some viewing it as a fleeting curiosity while others find potential in studying it. There is no consensus on the implications or importance of the mini-moon, as opinions vary widely.

Contextual Notes

Some claims about the mini-moon's characteristics, such as its size and orbit, depend on specific definitions and assumptions that are not fully explored in the discussion. The calculations regarding its return are also presented with uncertainty.

Who May Find This Useful

Astronomy enthusiasts, students of celestial mechanics, and those interested in asteroid studies may find the discussion relevant.

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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.
 
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Huh? Bits of asteroids land on Earth every day. You can even order them out of a catalog.
 
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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.
 
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  • #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: )
 
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  • #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".
 
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  • #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.
 

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