Earth is bidding farewell to a tiny asteroid that joined its orbit for nearly two months. The asteroid, known as 2024 PT5, is set to be drawn away from Earth by the powerful pull of the sun on Monday.

Almost a year ago, the space science community watched as an asteroid entered Earth's orbit and circled above our heads for almost two months before departing. Scientists usually track such asteroids ...

A chunk of space rock that visited near Earth's orbit last year was widely referred to as a "mini-moon." Turns out the lunar-inspired moniker may have been more accurate than we realized. The ...

When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. An illustration of the asteroid PT5 as it leaves Earth after a stint as our "second moon.". | ...

Earth has its fair share of fleeting companions. But sometimes, these so-called "mini-moons" have a surprising origin story. Take 2024 PT5, a bus-sized asteroid that drifted near Earth last year.

2024 PT5 is a near-Earth asteroid and is 11 meters in diameter (artist's impression shows a generic asteroid close to Earth). After just under two months in orbit, it's time to say goodbye to an ...

Asteroid 2024 PT5 didn't stick around for Thanksgiving, but don't be sad. It will be back... but will it ever be a second moon again? When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an ...