Moon Fragment Transforms into Near-Earth Asteroid: Researchers Unveil the Answer
Researchers from the University of Arizona have proposed that the near-Earth asteroid Kamo`oalewa is a fragment of the moon, challenging the previous belief that distant asteroids were the source of near-Earth asteroids. The asteroid's unique characteristics, including its quasi-satellite orbit and longevity, suggest a lunar origin. Numerical simulations indicate that certain lunar fragments can adopt Earth-like orbits, potentially explaining Kamo`oalewa's trajectory. Further study of this asteroid could provide insights into impact mechanics and help understand the hazards posed by near-Earth asteroids.