Research Reveals Earth Hosts Up to Six Minimoons at Any Time

Recent research indicates that Earth may host at least six 'minimoons'—temporary satellites that orbit our planet before transitioning to solar orbits. These celestial fragments, often less than 6.5 feet in diameter, present a unique challenge for detection due to their small size and swift movement through space.

The study, published in the journal *Icarus*, was led by Robert Jedicke, a researcher at the University of Hawaii. Jedicke explained the phenomenon, likening the behavior of minimoons to a square dance where partners frequently change: 'It's kind of like a square dance, where partners change regularly and sometimes leave the dance floor for a while.'

Minimoons are fragments of the Moon produced by impacts that send debris into space. Although most lunar material falls into orbit around the Sun, some pieces are occasionally captured by Earth's gravity. The research highlights that many particles ejected from the Moon could be temporarily captured by Earth, leading to the formation of these transient satellites.

According to previous studies, the majority of such objects originate from the asteroid belt situated between Mars and Jupiter. However, recent findings suggest that the Moon might also produce its own fragments that could become minimoons. For instance, the near-Earth object known as Kamo'oalewa, discovered in 2016, is believed to be a piece of the Moon dislodged during the formation of the Giordano Bruno crater approximately 1 million to 10 million years ago.

The study further predicts that, on average, there could be around 6.5 lunar-born satellites orbiting Earth simultaneously. Jedicke noted that the actual number might vary significantly, as these objects are constantly being replenished by new material. He cautioned, however, that many uncertainties exist in estimating the size and speed of the ejected material, leading to large potential errors in predictions.

Despite their small size, the detection of minimoons is becoming increasingly feasible due to advancements in telescopic surveys. However, the rapid motion of these objects makes it challenging for astronomers to identify them accurately. Jedicke remarked, 'Detecting objects in that size range means they have to be close so they are bright, but if they are close, it means they also appear to be moving quickly across the sky.'

The implications of these findings extend beyond academic interest. Minimoons may hold commercial potential, offering a more accessible means of extracting resources such as water and minerals compared to missions to the asteroid belt. As our understanding of these transient satellites improves, they could provide valuable insights into the formation and evolution of the solar system.

In conclusion, as researchers continue to identify and study lunar minimoons, they may uncover new knowledge about celestial mechanics and the history of our solar neighborhood. Understanding the dynamics of these tiny moons can enhance our comprehension of both lunar geology and the broader impacts of celestial collisions on Earth.