A quiet traveller from space is heading our way. Named 2025 ME92, the asteroid will pass Earth safely on 31 July. It’s about the size of an airplane.
Measuring roughly 95 feet across, the rock belongs to the Aten group. These asteroids have orbits that cross Earth’s path often. But this one, experts say, won’t pose any danger at all.
Speeding by, but no reason to panic
NASA reports it will come as close as 3.19 million kilometres. That may sound far, but in space, it's considered quite near. The asteroid will fly by at nearly 11,831 miles per hour.
Despite its closeness, 2025 ME92 doesn’t meet the threat mark. To be called hazardous, it must be wider than 85 meters and pass closer than 7.4 million kilometres. This one is smaller and safely distant.
Still, space agencies like NASA keep tracking every move. Even the tiniest shift in its path is worth watching. In space, even a small change can cause large effects later.
India looks to the future in space safety
India’s space agency, ISRO, is not taking chances either. Chairman S. Somanath has stressed the need for constant readiness. He’s looking forward to observing asteroid Apophis in 2029.
To prepare, ISRO hopes to work with NASA and others. Their aim is to create missions that study and land on asteroids. These could help in understanding dangers and how to stop them.
For now, there’s no threat from 2025 ME92. But the watch on space never truly ends. Each close pass reminds us how near the stars really are.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!