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New Quasi-Moon Discovered: Tiny Asteroid 2025 PN7 Revealed

9/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Astronomers discovered a new quasi-moon, 2025 PN7, which orbits the Sun while appearing to circle Earth.
This 62-foot-wide asteroid remained undetected for about 60 years due to its faintness.
Although influenced by Earth's gravity, it does not directly orbit the planet.
It is the smallest known quasi-satellite, visible only through powerful telescopes.
The discovery, made with the Pan-STARRS1 telescope, aids in understanding celestial dynamics.

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Story summary

Astronomers discovered a new quasi-moon, 2025 PN7, which orbits the Sun while appearing to circle Earth.
This 62-foot-wide asteroid remained undetected for about 60 years due to its faintness.
Although influenced by Earth's gravity, it does not directly orbit the planet.
It is the smallest known quasi-satellite, visible only through powerful telescopes.
The discovery, made with the Pan-STARRS1 telescope, aids in understanding celestial dynamics.