JOURNAL ARTICLE

A ‘quasi-moon’ discovered in Earth orbit may have been hiding for decades.

  • Published In: How It Works, 2025, n. 208. P. 20 1 of 3

  • Database: Science Reference Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: HOWELL, ELIZABETH 3 of 3

Abstract

The article discusses the discovery of a potential new "quasi-moon" of Earth, designated as 2025 PN7, which may have been orbiting alongside our planet for decades without detection. Quasi-moons are asteroids that appear to orbit Earth but actually follow a path around the Sun. The asteroid 2025 PN7 is noted to be the smallest and least stable known quasi-satellite, measuring only 19 meters in width and classified with a brightness of magnitude 26.0, making it visible only through powerful telescopes. The discovery was first proposed by an amateur astronomer, and it is suggested that more quasi-moons may be identified with the capabilities of the newly operational Vera C. Rubin Observatory. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:How It Works. 2025/11, Issue 208, p20
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Astronomy and Astrophysics
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:2041-7322
  • Accession Number:188643216
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