near-Earth object

NASA to Monitor Asteroid 2024 PT5’s Close Approach to Earth

NASA reports that asteroid 2024 PT5, a 33-foot fragment from the Moon, will closely approach Earth in January 2025. This event presents a unique opportunity for scientists to study the asteroid, which poses no threat to our planet. As it orbits at a distance nine times further than the Moon, astronomers are eager to monitor its trajectory, contributing to planetary defense efforts and enhancing our understanding of near-Earth objects.

Dramatic Fireball from Small Asteroid Lights Up Russian Sky

A small asteroid created a spectacular fireball over Russia’s Sakha region early Wednesday, captivating residents and highlighting the importance of astronomical monitoring. The European Space Agency detected the asteroid 12 hours before its entry, ensuring no damage or injuries occurred. This event underscores the significance of studying near-Earth objects and planetary defense as public interest in space exploration grows.

Asteroid 2020 XR to Make Historic Close Approach to Earth on December 4, 2023

On December 4, 2023, asteroid 2020 XR will make its closest approach to Earth, passing within 1.37 million miles. This massive asteroid, comparable to a football stadium and traveling at 27,500 mph, offers a unique opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts to observe a potentially hazardous near-Earth object. Live coverage will be available from the Virtual Telescope Project, and observers can use telescopes to witness this historic flyby. Stay updated for this exciting celestial event!

Rare Cosmic Event: Asteroid Apophis to Approach Earth in 2029

Get ready for one of the most extraordinary space events in history as asteroid 99942 Apophis is set to make a close approach to Earth in 2029. With a 1.6% probability of impact, this rare cosmic event has NASA experts on alert. Stay informed and prepared for this once-in-a-lifetime celestial phenomenon.

Experts Discuss Hypothetical Asteroid Threat in Table-Top Simulation

A table-top simulation involving asteroid experts, NASA workers, and international partners highlighted the potential threat of a massive asteroid with a 72% chance of colliding with Earth in 14 years. With thousands of ‘near-Earth objects’ still unidentified, the exercise emphasized the need for ongoing preparedness and vigilance to protect the planet from catastrophic impacts.

NASA Warns of Plane-Sized Asteroid Approaching Earth in 2024

NASA warns of a 98-foot plane-sized asteroid, 2024 LB4, on a trajectory towards Earth, set to make a close approach on June 16, 2024. Despite its size and proximity, NASA assures no immediate threat. Continuous monitoring by the Center for Near-Earth Object Studies highlights the importance of planetary defense efforts and asteroid research. NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory tracks asteroids like 2024 LB4 using advanced telescopes and radar systems to assess potential risks. The close approach in June 2024 underscores the need for ongoing vigilance in monitoring asteroids and ensuring Earth’s safety.

Earth’s ‘Second Moon’ Originated from Moon’s Giordano Bruno Crater, Study Finds

Discover the fascinating story of Earth’s new ‘second moon,’ asteroid Kamo’oalewa, which originated from the moon’s Giordano Bruno crater. Learn about its unique orbit, recent findings linking it to the moon, and upcoming missions to uncover more about this celestial object.

Massive 280-Foot Asteroid Set to Make Close Approach to Earth Tomorrow

NASA reports that a massive 280-foot asteroid named Asteroid 2024 GM is set to make a close approach to Earth tomorrow, April 21. Despite its size, there is no cause for concern as it will come within about 4,450,000 miles of Earth before retreating back into the depths of the solar system. Learn more about how space agencies like NASA actively monitor celestial bodies to ensure they do not pose a threat to Earth.

NASA’s Planetary Defense Capabilities Tested as Small Asteroid Disintegrates over Germany

NASA’s planetary defense capabilities were put to the test as a small asteroid, named 2024 BX1, harmlessly disintegrated over Germany. The asteroid, approximately 3 feet in size, was detected by NASA’s Scout impact hazard assessment system, providing advanced warning of…

Researchers Make Significant Discovery Regarding Impact Melts on Asteroid Ryugu

Researchers have made a significant discovery regarding the microstructural and chemical features of impact melts on the surfaces of particles from the asteroid Ryugu, shedding light on the records of interplanetary dust hitting the asteroid. The findings, published in the…