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Ancient Moon Fragment Discovered Near Earth: Astronomers Reveal

1/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Astronomers have unveiled that the near-Earth object 2024 PT5, once thought to be a "mini-moon," is likely a piece of the moon blasted off by an ancient impact. At around 33 feet, this intriguing fragment soared close to Earth from September to November 2022, shedding light on the increasing number of lunar asteroids in our cosmic neighborhood.

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Story summary

Astronomers have unveiled that the near-Earth object 2024 PT5, once thought to be a "mini-moon," is likely a piece of the moon blasted off by an ancient impact. At around 33 feet, this intriguing fragment soared close to Earth from September to November 2022, shedding light on the increasing number of lunar asteroids in our cosmic neighborhood.