A 17-foot asteroid to fly by very close to Earth today at high speed, confirms NASA—check details

Asteroid approaching Earth

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is monitoring asteroid 2025 CG, which will pass by Earth on 8 February. Measuring approximately 55 feet in diameter, this near-Earth object poses no threat.

Approach Details

Asteroid 2025 CG will pass at a distance of about 1,300,000 miles from Earth, over five times the distance to the Moon. Travelling at approximately 20,089 miles per hour, it will make its closest approach at 5:51 AM IST.

Understanding Near-Earth Objects

Near-Earth objects (NEOs) are celestial bodies that come within 1.3 astronomical units of Earth. Studying them provides insights into the solar system's formation and potential impact risks.

NASA employs advanced systems to track NEOs like 2025 CG. Tools include radar and missions like OSIRIS-REx, which collect asteroid samples. These efforts enhance our understanding of space objects and inform planetary defence strategies.

As asteroid 2025 CG safely passes by, NASA continues its vigilant monitoring to ensure Earth's safety from potential cosmic threats.