Gazing at a quiet night sky can feel comforting. But this week, a visitor from space will briefly steal attention from the stars.
NASA has confirmed that asteroid 2025 OJ10, measuring around 87 feet wide, will pass Earth on 13 August. Travelling at 14,390 miles per hour, it will come within 2,190,000 miles of the planet.
No risk from asteroid flyby
Scientists say the asteroid belongs to the Aten group, which often crosses Earth’s orbit. Despite its size, it poses no danger. NASA considers a rock hazardous only if it comes within 7.4 million kilometres and measures over 85 metres wide. This asteroid meets neither condition.
Experts still track harmless flybys closely. Even a small shift in orbit could alter its path. Space agencies across the globe remain alert to monitor such events.
India’s asteroid research plans
ISRO Chairman S. Somanath recently spoke of plans to study larger asteroids, including Apophis, which is due to approach in 2029. India also aims to collaborate with NASA, ESA, and JAXA on missions that could land on asteroids and study their make-up.
Although 2025 OJ10 will pass safely, its approach highlights the need for strong monitoring and research. The calmest skies can change without warning, and scientists say each flyby helps improve understanding of these wandering space rocks.
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