Earth has 7 quasi-moons, which are asteroids that orbit the Earth but are also influenced by the gravity of other planets. They are not true moons.
One of Earth’s quasi-moons is 2004 GU9. It has an unstable orbit and will leave Earth’s orbit after 2600.
The podcast Radiolab is hosting a contest to name 2004 GU9, similar to how host Latif Nasser accidentally named Venus’ quasi-moon “Zoozve” after discovering it on a poster.
Names submitted for 2004 GU9 will be considered by Nasser and other judges. They want mythological names, but may consider more creative options. Names must be appropriate and avoid silly choices.
Nasser sees naming a quasi-moon as a small achievement, like getting a tile in the board game Life. Though it’s just a rock, connecting something to your name that will outlive you is meaningful.
Submitters are invited to propose a name that feels uniquely suited to the object’s unstable orbit and one they themselves might have thought of. Naming opportunities help people feel more engaged with the cosmos.
Source: Space
