Overview:
Buzz has been growing about Earth having a “second moon.” However, what’s being referred to isn’t a true moon — it’s a quasi-moon. These space objects appear to follow Earth but actually orbit the Sun. The latest discovery, 2025 PN7, remained undetected for nearly 60 years and represents a fascinating breakthrough in astronomical research.
By William Barber | Presence News
What We’ve Been Missing
Astronomers at the University of Hawaii’s Pan-STARRS observatory recently identified a small asteroid named 2025 PN7. Despite having trailed Earth since the 1960s, it escaped detection until August of this year.
While headlines have dubbed it our “second moon,” 2025 PN7 is technically a quasi-moon — not a true satellite of Earth.
What Is a Quasi-Moon?
A quasi-moon is a type of asteroid that orbits the Sun, not Earth. However, its orbital pattern makes it appear to follow Earth as both move through space. Because it’s not gravitationally bound to our planet, 2025 PN7 doesn’t meet the definition of a true moon.
Details of the Space Rock
- Estimated Size: 30 meters long, 19 meters wide
- Closest Approach: Roughly 299,000 kilometers — closer than our actual Moon
- Visibility: Too small to be seen with the naked eye; requires specialized observation equipment
Despite its close orbit, this cosmic companion is harmless and stable.
How Long Will It Stay?
According to NASA, 2025 PN7 will remain in Earth’s orbiting neighborhood until around 2083, when gravitational shifts will likely send it drifting away from our planet’s vicinity.
Should We Be Concerned?
Fortunately, no. Astronomers confirm that 2025 PN7’s orbit keeps it at a safe distance, and it poses no threat to Earth or its inhabitants.
Why This Discovery Matters
The detection of quasi-moon 2025 PN7 offers more than scientific curiosity — it’s a window into how near-Earth asteroids behave.
Its presence allows researchers to study:
- Orbital resonances and asteroid dynamics
- Planetary defense strategies
- Potential future resource mining opportunities
It’s also considered an ideal test target for future space missions due to its proximity and predictable path.
Historical Significance
2025 PN7 joins an elite class — it is only the eighth known quasi-moon associated with Earth. Each discovery expands our understanding of how small objects interact with planetary orbits in our solar system.
Will We Find More Moons in the Future?
Given the rapid advancement in astronomical detection technology, it’s highly likely that more quasi-moons will soon be discovered. If one object could remain hidden for nearly six decades, who knows what other neighbors might be quietly circling alongside us?
Sources:
- Lunar and Planetary Institute
- Yahoo! News
- ZoomBangla News
- AZ Central
- Planetary Society
- WCNC News
- Economic Times
- Estoy En La Frontera
Editor’s Note:
This article was submitted by Presence News contributor William Barber. Presence News remains committed to publishing verified science and discovery content with clarity and accessibility for all readers. William Barber is a little sick today 10/22/25 so hoping he feels better Presence News sends a get well soon to him
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