Earth’s Second Moon Confirmed: Asteroid PN7 to Orbit With Us Until 2083

A newly discovered asteroid is now officially traveling with Earth through space. NASA has confirmed that the small object, named 2025 PN7, is a new “quasi-moon.” This cosmic companion will remain near our planet for decades.

The discovery was made by astronomers at the University of Hawaii. They spotted the object using the Pan-STARRS observatory in late August 2025. This finding adds to a small group of known objects that share our orbital path.

What Exactly Is a Quasi-Moon?

A quasi-moon is not a true satellite like our Moon. It is an asteroid that orbits the Sun on a path very similar to Earth’s. The gravity of the Sun and Earth keeps it in a stable, corkscrew-like pattern relative to our planet.

According to data from NASA, 2025 PN7 is quite small. It measures approximately 19 meters, or about 62 feet, wide. That makes it roughly the size of a city bus. Its small size and great distance made it difficult to detect for many years.

This asteroid is not a new visitor. Orbital calculations show it has been traveling near Earth since at least the 1960s. It was simply never seen until now. Its journey with us is expected to continue until the year 2083.

A History of Earth’s Temporary Cosmic Companions

Earth has hosted several of these temporary companions over the years. Astronomers have identified at least seven other quasi-moons in recent history. One of the most famous is Kamo’oalewa, discovered in 2016.

Sometimes, these objects spark more than just scientific curiosity. The first known quasi-moon, 1991 VG, had such an unusual orbit that some speculated it could be an alien probe. That theory was quickly dismissed by the scientific community.

The discovery of 2025 PN7 highlights our improving ability to map near-Earth objects. It poses no threat to our planet. Instead, it offers a unique opportunity to study a long-term orbital partner up close.

This confirmation of a new quasi-moon provides a fascinating glimpse into the dynamic nature of our solar system’s gravitational dance, proving that even Earth can have a temporary second moon.

Info at your fingertips

What is a quasi-moon?

A quasi-moon is an asteroid that orbits the Sun while also being gravitationally influenced by Earth. It appears to orbit our planet from our perspective, but it actually follows its own path around the Sun.

How big is the new quasi-moon 2025 PN7?

2025 PN7 is about 19 meters (62 feet) in diameter. This makes it relatively small, comparable to the length of a standard city bus or a large house.

Is 2025 PN7 dangerous to Earth?

No, it poses no danger. Its orbit is stable and does not intersect with Earth’s path in a way that would lead to a collision. It will simply drift away from Earth’s vicinity in 2083.

How many quasi-moons does Earth have?

With the addition of 2025 PN7, Earth has had at least eight documented quasi-moons. Typically, only one or two are present at any given time due to their temporary orbital nature.

Why did it take so long to discover 2025 PN7?

The asteroid is very small and faint, making it extremely difficult to detect with telescopes. Advanced survey technology like the Pan-STARRS observatory was needed to spot it against the dark backdrop of space.