A 210-foot, airplane-sized asteroid is heading towards Earth at an alarming speed today

(Representative Image: Canva)

Asteroid enthusiasts can expect an exciting celestial event this December. NASA has spotted two asteroids, 2024 XW15 and 2024 XC16, passing Earth on December 13. Though considered "near misses," scientists confirm they pose no threat to our planet.

Details of Asteroid 2024 XW15
The asteroid, 2024 XW15, measures 210 feet—comparable to a large airplane. It will approach Earth on 13 December at 9:42 AM IST, travelling at a speed of 25,859 miles per hour. The space rock will pass within 4,010,000 miles of Earth, roughly 16 times the distance between Earth and the Moon. Despite this, experts affirm there is no cause for alarm.

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Fast-Approaching Asteroid 2024 XC16
NASA has also confirmed another asteroid, 2024 XC16, measuring 100 feet in diameter. This asteroid will whiz past Earth at an incredible speed of 46,269 miles per hour. Its closest approach will be within 3,280,000 miles of the planet, still far enough to ensure safety.

Why Scientists Track Asteroids Closely
Asteroids like 2024 XW15 are relics of the early solar system, dating back 4.6 billion years. These rocky objects are essential for understanding the cosmos and Earth’s history. Events like the asteroid collision that wiped out the dinosaurs highlight the importance of monitoring such objects. Tracking their orbits provides critical data for planetary defence efforts.

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Technology in Planetary Defence
NASA relies on advanced tools for tracking near-Earth objects (NEOs). The Jet Propulsion Laboratory employs cutting-edge radar systems to analyse asteroid paths. Missions such as OSIRIS-REx and Hayabusa2 have brought asteroid samples back to Earth, offering valuable insights into the origins of our solar system and the emergence of life on our planet.

By studying asteroids like 2024 XW15, scientists gain crucial knowledge while continuing efforts to safeguard Earth from potential future threats.