Science9/19/2025β€’NYT

A Tiny Quasi-Moon is Following Earth Around the Sun

A Tiny Quasi-Moon is Following Earth Around the Sun

A newly discovered astronomical object has been found to be orbiting the Earth as a "quasi-moon." This object, nicknamed "2020 CD3," is estimated to be just a few meters in diameter and is believed to have been captured by Earth's gravity around three years ago. Astronomers have determined that 2020 CD3 is not a true moon, but rather a temporary satellite that will likely remain in this orbit for around 60 years before escaping back into its own orbit around the Sun. This phenomenon, known as a "quasi-moon," is relatively rare, with only a handful of such objects ever detected. The discovery of 2020 CD3 provides valuable insights into the dynamics of our solar system and the complex interactions between Earth, the Moon, and other celestial bodies. While not a permanent fixture, the presence of this tiny quasi-moon is an intriguing addition to our understanding of the Earth's neighborhood in the vastness of space.

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