Gemini Telescope Images “Minimoon” Orbiting Earth — in Color!

Astronomers using the international Gemini Observatory have imaged what is most likely a rare natural rocky object in orbit around the Earth. The image was obtained on 24 February 2020 using the 8-meter Gemini North telescope on Maunakea through a Director’s Discretionary Time proposal. Designated 2020 CD3, the “mini-moon” is quickly becoming fainter as it moves away from the Earth and is expected to escape from Earth orbit in April 2020. Additional observations may help unravel the mystery of the object’s origin. 2020 CD3 is believed to be the second known rocky Earth satellite other than the Moon; the previous one orbited for about a year in 2006-2007. Follow this link to read the full press release. Gemini’s image of 2020 CD3 was featured in a 27 February New York Times article linked here.