A recently discovered mini-moon, designated as 2026 QQ8, has been identified orbiting Earth. It is anticipated to depart by 2027. The small asteroid was captured by Earth’s gravitational pull in April and was first detected by Hungarian astronomer Kriztián Sárneczky in late August.
According to reports from multiple sources, including The Independent and AccuWeather, the asteroid measures just 3 to 6 feet in diameter. It is classified as a moon due to its current orbit around Earth. This orbit is expected to conclude by late 2026 or early 2027. Once it completes its orbit, 2026 QQ8 will return to space.
During its closest approach in August, 2026 QQ8 was approximately 333,700 miles away from Earth. Its small size means it remains invisible to amateur telescopes and presents no danger to humans. If it were to approach Earth, it would likely disintegrate upon atmospheric entry.
This discovery adds to the list of known mini-moons that have temporarily orbited our planet. The first mini-moon was recorded in 1991. Some astronomers suggest that Earth may have as many as six mini-moons at any given time, as indicated by Sky at Night Magazine.
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