A giant 540-foot asteroid is speeding at 77,282 km/h towards Earth – close approach on 26 March

Asteroid Hitting Earth (Representative Image: Canva)

A massive asteroid, as large as the Taj Mahal, is racing towards Earth. Scientists are closely monitoring Asteroid 2014 TN17 as it travels at an incredible speed. Though it poses no immediate threat, experts remain watchful due to its classification as a potentially hazardous asteroid.

When Will It Pass Earth?
Asteroid 2014 TN17 will make its closest approach on March 26. It will pass Earth at 5:04 p.m. IST, staying 5 million kilometres away. This distance is about 13 times farther than the Moon. While there is no danger, its size and path make it an object of interest for astronomers.

The asteroid belongs to the Apollo group, which follows an orbit that crosses Earth's path. Most Apollo asteroids pass harmlessly, but small changes in their trajectory could pose risks in the future. Gravitational pulls or space debris collisions might alter their course over time.

What If It Hit Earth?
A collision with an asteroid of this size would cause severe destruction. The impact could release energy equal to hundreds of nuclear bombs. It might level cities, trigger massive fires, and affect global weather patterns.

For comparison, the 1908 Tunguska event in Siberia flattened 2,000 square kilometres of forest. That explosion was caused by an object only half the size of 2014 TN17. If a similar event occurred today over a major city, the loss of life would be immense.

How Are Scientists Tracking It?
NASA’s Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) is tracking 2014 TN17. Telescopes, radar systems, and amateur astronomers help monitor such space rocks. However, some asteroids remain undetected until they are close to Earth.

Scientists continue to study these objects to improve early warning systems. For now, 2014 TN17 will pass safely, but experts remain vigilant in their efforts to protect the planet.