Asteroid Alert: Multiple Large Objects Approaching Earth This Week
Asteroid Alert: Astronomers have identified several sizable asteroids, each comparable in size to a commercial airplane, on a trajectory that brings them close to Earth in the coming days. While current predictions indicate that these space rocks will pass at safe distances, their proximity highlights the importance of monitoring near-Earth objects. Stay tuned for updates from space agencies as they track these celestial visitors.
Asteroid Alert – NASA: Airplane-Sized Asteroids Approaching Earth This Week
NASA has reported that several asteroids, each about the size of an airplane, will make close approaches to Earth this week. Among the five asteroids, the largest is estimated to be 110 feet in diameter, while the closest will come within 447,000 miles of our planet.
Asteroid Alert – What Does This Mean?
While it is common for large asteroids to pass Earth at safe distances, this week’s cluster is notable for the number of encounters. Asteroid 2024 LU1, approximately 71 feet in diameter, made its closest approach on June 17, passing within 1,150,000 miles. The next close approach is scheduled for June 19, featuring the largest asteroid of the group, which will pass at a distance of 447,000 miles.
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Asteroid Alert – Which Asteroids Can Be Hazardous?
Asteroids are typically composed of rocky, dusty, and metallic materials. Most orbit within the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, but some follow paths that bring them closer to Earth. These near-Earth asteroids are part of a larger category known as near-Earth objects (NEOs), which also includes comets. NEOs come within 1.3 astronomical units of the Sun and 0.3 astronomical units of Earth’s orbit (approximately 28 million miles).
To be classified as a potentially hazardous asteroid (PHA), an asteroid must be at least 140 meters in diameter and come within 7.48 million kilometers of Earth. An asteroid of this size that enters Earth’s atmosphere and does not completely burn up could cause significant damage, especially if it strikes a populated area.
Asteroid Alert- Difference Between Asteroids and Meteoroids
Asteroids are larger Sun-orbiting rocks or particles. Meteoroids are smaller, less than three feet in size. When a meteoroid enters Earth’s atmosphere, it creates a light phenomenon known as a meteor. If any part of a meteoroid or asteroid survives the atmospheric entry and lands on Earth’s surface, it is called a meteorite.
NASA’s Planetary Defense Coordination Office (PDCO)
To monitor and prepare for potential asteroid threats, NASA’s Planetary Defense Coordination Office (PDCO) plays a crucial role. The PDCO coordinates efforts and creates plans to protect Earth from the potential impacts of hazardous space objects.
