Streeport: In a remarkable astronomical revelation, scientists have stumbled upon a fascinating celestial object that has been accompanying Earth on its yearly journey around the sun. Named 2023 FW13, this asteroid, categorized as a “quasi-moon” or “quasi-satellite,” has captured the attention of astronomers worldwide. Measuring a mere 50 feet (15 meters) in diameter, it possesses a distinctive orbit that aligns closely with Earth’s.
The initial sighting of 2023 FW13 occurred on March 28, 2023, using the powerful Pan-STARRS survey telescope perched at Hawaii’s dormant volcano, Haleakalā.
Its presence was subsequently verified by the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope and two observatories in Arizona. On April 1, the International Astronomical Union’s Minor Planet Center officially documented and registered this captivating asteroid, solidifying its place in scientific history.
Irrespective of its classification, 2023 FW13 has been identified as Earth’s celestial companion since approximately 100 BCE, making it the longest-known quasi-satellite to date. Scientists predict that this extraordinary asteroid will continue trailing Earth along its solar journey until approximately 3,700 CE, captivating stargazers for centuries to come.
Distinguishing between an asteroid and a quasi-moon is essential. Asteroids, typically small rocky objects, orbit the sun and are predominantly found within the asteroid belt located between Mars and Jupiter.
On the other hand, a quasi-moon denotes an asteroid trapped in a synchronized orbit with a planet, resulting in a complex looping path that alternates between circling the planet and moving away from it. A striking example of this phenomenon is 2006 RH120, a diminutive asteroid that briefly shared Earth’s orbit with the Moon, underscoring the intricate gravitational interplay within our solar system.
The vastness and enigmatic nature of space occasionally lead to the discovery of overlooked celestial debris or, in this case, quasi-moons orbiting Earth. Despite its relatively small size, 2023 FW13 has successfully evaded collision with our planet due to its unique orbital trajectory.
Notably, it is not the sole quasi-companion of Earth, as another quasi-satellite called Kamo’oalewa was detected in 2016, closely trailing Earth’s solar revolution. Intriguingly, some researchers speculate that 2023 FW13 might even be a fragment of Earth’s moon, further intensifying its allure.
The revelation of this quasi-moon asteroid stands as a testament to the intricate wonders of our universe. It serves as a reminder of the boundless mysteries that space holds, continuously expanding our knowledge and providing remarkable insights into the nature of celestial bodies.
As astronomers delve deeper into the secrets of the cosmos, discoveries like 2023 FW13 serve to ignite our curiosity and push the boundaries of human understanding.
FAQ’s
How Many quasi moons Does Earth Have?
The known current quasi-satellites of Earth are particularly 469219 Kamoʻoalewa and (164207) 2004 GU9, as well as (277810) 2006 FV35, 2014 OL339, 2013 LX28, 2020 PP1, and 2023 FW13.
What Does quasi moon Do?
Astronomers have discovered an asteroid that orbits the Sun with Earth, earning it the moniker “quasi-moon.” Recently discovered asteroid 2023 FW13 has created a bit of a stir among asteroid watchers.
What is The Earth’s quasi moon?
Scientists have discovered a new asteroid along Earth recently. The asteroid dubbed 2023 FW13, is considered a “quasi-moon” or “quasi-satellite”. The new celestial object orbits the sun in a similar time frame as Earth does, as per the media reports. The said moon is estimated to be 50 feet (15 meters).