A giant 73-foot asteroid will zoom past Earth today at a high speed of 16,920 mph

Asteroid Alert! (Image: Canva)

The night sky has long sparked curiosity and quiet wonder. Now, a visitor from space is drawing close attention. An asteroid nearly the size of an aeroplane is racing towards Earth, and scientists are watching its path carefully.

How close will asteroid 2023 PX come?
NASA has confirmed asteroid 2023 PX will pass Earth soon. The rock is around 73 feet wide in size. It is moving at a high speed of 16,920 miles per hour through space. On 22 August, it will make its closest approach. The distance will be nearly 577,000 miles from Earth.

Scientists say the asteroid poses no threat at all. NASA only marks rocks as hazardous under strict conditions. They must be larger than 85 metres in size. They must also pass within 7.4 million kilometres of Earth. Asteroid 2023 PX does not meet either condition today.

Why do scientists keep watch on such asteroids?
Even harmless flybys need attention, experts often explain. A slight change in orbit can alter its course. That is why agencies across the globe track them. NASA, ESA, ISRO and JAXA all remain alert. Their teams monitor space rocks closely and prepare for any surprises.

ISRO Chairman S. Somanath has shared detailed plans recently. He said the agency hopes to study larger asteroids. One of them is Apophis, arriving in 2029. ISRO also seeks to work with NASA and ESA. Future missions may aim to land on asteroids directly.

Why is asteroid 2023 PX still important to watch?
The asteroid may pass safely, but it is a reminder. The calm sky can quickly change without any warning. Its approach highlights the importance of close tracking and research. While this one will fly past quietly, scientists will still watch closely.