Earth may be gaining a temporary moon

A planetary plus-one

Moon in night sky
A temporary moon is going to join Earth's orbit for two months
(Image credit: Jose A. Bernat Bacete / Getty Images)

Starting in late September, Earth is going to have a second moon for two brief months, as a small asteroid piece will be incorporated into the planet's orbit before heading back into outer space. Experts often monitor objects flying near Earth for potential threats; but they are also of great interest to scientists, since these space particles could become a valuable resource in the future.

A moon for a moment

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Devika Rao, The Week US

 Devika Rao has worked as a staff writer at The Week since 2022, covering science, the environment, climate and business. She previously worked as a policy associate for a nonprofit organization advocating for environmental action from a business perspective.